aldehydo group

chemical compounds

Also known as: aldehyde group

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

June 18, 2026

Quick Summary

An aldehyde is an organic compound characterized by a carbonyl group (C=O) bonded to a hydrogen atom and another atom or group (R). This carbonyl group is responsible for their distinct chemical and physical properties, including polarity, which leads to higher boiling points compared to similar hydrocarbons.12

Aldehydes are derived from alcohols and undergo various chemical reactions, including polymerization. They are valuable in industry as solvents, perfume ingredients, and intermediates for plastics, dyes, and pharmaceuticals. Naturally occurring aldehydes include benzaldehyde (almond scent), cinnamaldehyde (cinnamon), and vanillin (vanilla). Some aldehydes, like retinal (vitamin A aldehyde), play crucial roles in biological processes, such as vision.13

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

4 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

carbohydrate
Classification and nomenclature
…group that is either an aldehyde group or a keto group, they are frequently referred to as aldopentoses or ketopentoses or aldohexoses or ketohexoses. The aldehyde group can occur at position 1 of an aldopentose, and the keto group can occur at a further position (e.g., 2) within a ketohexose.…
Read More
…group that is either an aldehyde group or a keto group, they are frequently referred to as aldopentoses or ketopentoses or aldohexoses or ketohexoses. The aldehyde group can occur at position 1 of an aldopentose, and the keto group can occur at a further position (e.g., 2) within a ketohexose.…
Read More