What is the difference between acetaldehyde and n-butyraldehyde

In the chemical industry, aldehyde compounds are one of the important basic materials, and acetaldehyde and n-butyraldehyde, as representatives of aldehyde compounds, are often confused because of their similar appearance and chemical properties. This article will explain the difference between acetaldehyde and n-butyraldehyde in detail to help you better understand their structure, properties and applications.

Structural formula and basic composition of 1.

Acetaldehyde (acetaldehyde, chemical formula CH3CHO) and n-butyraldehyde (n-butyraldehyde, chemical formula C4H9CHO) are aldehyde compounds, the structural formula contains aldehyde CHO. Their basic composition is different:

1. structural formula of acetaldehyde: CH3-CHO, molecular formula is C₂ H4O, molecular weight is 30.
2. Structural formula of n-butyraldehyde CH2CH2CH2CHO, molecular formula is C4H8O, molecular weight is 72.

The two are structurally similar, but the length of the carbon chain is different, resulting in significant differences in their physical and chemical properties.

Comparison of 2. properties

1. Physical properties

• density: Acetaldehyde has a density of 1.029g/cm³, while n-butyraldehyde has a density of 1.005g/cm³. Acetaldehyde is slightly higher than n-butyraldehyde.
• Melting Point: The melting point of acetaldehyde is -118°C, and the melting point of n-butyraldehyde is -58.4°C.
• Boiling Point: The boiling point of acetaldehyde is 190°C, and the boiling point of n-butyraldehyde is 139°C.

relocate2. Chemical properties

• oxidation reaction: Both acetaldehyde and n-butyraldehyde can be oxidized to produce different products. Acetaldehyde produces mainly carbon dioxide and water, while n-butyraldehyde produces carbon dioxide and methanol.
• reducibility: The reducibility of acetaldehyde is strong, while the reducibility of n-butyraldehyde is weak.

3. Identification method

• optical rotation density: The optical density of acetaldehyde is higher, while the optical density of n-butyraldehyde is lower.
• physical identification: At room temperature, the color and smell of acetaldehyde and n-butyraldehyde are similar, but they can be distinguished by instruments.

3. Use Analysis

• application of acetaldehyde: Acetaldehyde is mainly used as a raw material for solvents and fragrances, such as for making cosmetics and food additives.
• Application of n-Butyraldehyde butyraldehyde is mainly used in textile and rubber processing, because of its non-aldehyde irritation, used in the production of environmentally friendly materials.

4. environmental considerations

because of its long carbon chain, n-butyraldehyde has a low eco-friendly degree and is not easy to degrade, which may have a certain impact on the environment. Acetaldehyde, on the other hand, has less environmental impact in some cases, but it may produce harmful substances in some applications.

Conclusion

there are significant differences in the structure and properties of acetaldehyde and n-butyraldehyde. Understanding these differences can help to make more informed choices in industrial production and environmental protection. By analyzing their physical properties, chemical reactions and uses, we can make better use of them while reducing their impact on the environment. I hope this article can provide you with valuable reference information.