Acrylaldehyde

/ˌækrɪlˈældɪˌhaɪd/ noun

Definition

Another name for acrolein, a pungent organic compound used in the production of acrylic fibers and other industrial chemicals.

Etymology

From acryl (the chemical radical) plus aldehyde (a class of organic compounds). The compound name describes its chemical structure: it contains both acrylic and aldehyde functional groups.

Kelly Says

Acrylaldehyde (acrolein) is what makes your eyes water when you cook oil at very high temperatures—it's a poisonous byproduct of burning fats, which is why your kitchen gets that unpleasant smell!

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