Alkanal

/ˈælkənæl/ noun

Definition

An aldehyde formed from an alkane by oxidation; an organic compound with a carbonyl group attached to a carbon chain.

Etymology

From alkane + -al suffix (chemistry suffix for aldehydes). The -al suffix in organic chemistry specifically denotes an aldehyde functional group.

Kelly Says

The -al suffix in chemistry is so precise—'methanol' is a drink, 'methanal' is formaldehyde used in labs. One letter difference, completely different uses, both built from the same naming system!

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