Formic aldehyde, also known as aldehydum or formaldehyde, is a colorless gas or liquid with a pungent, distinctive smell. It is classified as an aldehyde, which is a class of organic compounds containing a carbonyl group with a hydrogen atom and an R group attached. In the case of formic aldehyde, the R group is a hydrogen atom.
Formic aldehyde has a chemical formula CH2O and a molecular weight of 30.03 g/mol. It has a simple structure consisting of a carbon atom bonded to two hydrogen atoms and an oxygen atom, with a double bond between the carbon and oxygen atom. The carbonyl group is responsible for the aldehyde's characteristic reactivity.
Formic aldehyde is highly soluble in water and exhibits various physical and chemical properties. As a gas, it readily polymerizes to form paraformaldehyde, a white solid consisting of repeating units of CH2O. As a liquid, it is highly flammable and can release toxic fumes when heated or exposed to fire.
Due to its strong reducing properties, formic aldehyde is widely used in several industries. It serves as an important building block and intermediate for the synthesis of various chemicals, such as resins, plastics, textiles, and pharmaceuticals. It is also commonly used as a disinfectant, preservative, and embalming agent. Additionally, formic aldehyde finds applications in the production of adhesives, coatings, and fertilizers.
However, formic aldehyde is highly toxic and can have adverse health effects if ingested, inhaled, or exposed to the skin. Prolonged exposure to high levels of formic aldehyde has been associated with respiratory issues, irritation of the skin, eyes,
