Definition

1. Noun:
   • The chemical group -CHO: A functional group in organic chemistry consisting of a carbonyl group (a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom) bonded to a hydrogen atom and to an R group (which can be a hydrogen or a hydrocarbon chain). It is the defining group of aldehydes.

Usage

• The term "aldehyde group" is used specifically in the context of organic chemistry to describe this particular molecular structure. It is a technical term.
• It is typically used as a countable noun (e.g., , ).

Examples

• Noun:
  • Formaldehyde is the simplest aldehyde, containing an aldehyde group attached to a hydrogen atom.
  • The presence of an aldehyde group in the molecule was confirmed by spectroscopic analysis.
  • This reaction selectively oxidizes the alcohol to an aldehyde group.

Advanced Usage

• "Aldehyde group" vs. "Aldehyde": The term "aldehyde" refers to the entire organic compound containing the aldehyde group. The "aldehyde group" (-CHO) is the functional group within that compound.
  • Benzaldehyde is an aldehyde. Its characteristic reactivity comes from its aldehyde group.

Variants and Related Words

• Aldehyde (n): An organic compound containing the -CHO group.
  • Acetaldehyde is a common aldehyde.
• Formyl group (n): A synonym for the aldehyde group, especially when it is considered as a substituent (-CHO).
  • The formyl group is highly reactive.

Synonyms

• Formyl group: A direct synonym in chemical nomenclature.

Related Phrases / Concepts

• Carbonyl group: A broader functional group (C=O) that includes both aldehyde groups and ketone groups.
• Reduction of an aldehyde group: A common chemical transformation where the aldehyde group is converted to a primary alcohol.
• Oxidation of an aldehyde group: A reaction where the aldehyde group is converted to a carboxylic acid group.

Noun

1. the chemical group -CHO