Difference Between Aldehyde and Formaldehyde

Both aldehyde and formaldehyde are organic compounds. When comparing the two, formaldehyde is very complex than the other organic compounds.

Formaldehyde consists of one Carbon atom, two Hydrogen atoms and one Oxygen atom. A functional group, aldehyde has a carbonyl centre tied to hydrogen atom with a R group.

As said earlier, Formaldehyde is much complicated as it takes on different forms. A gas at room temperature, Formaldehyde may convert to other derivatives. Formaldehyde is extensively used in the industrial sector. This compound is used in the manufacture of many things including paints, glues, antiseptics, preservatives and resins. Formalin, which is used in embalming, is a name that is very familiar with Formaldehyde. As this compound is very much reactive, it is mixed with other compounds to form stable substances.

The carbonyl bonding is a characteristic of all aldehyde compounds. Aldehydes are mainly derived from alcohol through dehydrogenation or hydrogen removal. It is this process that has given the name aldehylde.

When compared to formaldehydes, the aldehydes come with a pleasant odour. Just like formaldehydes, the aldehydes also undergo many chemical reactions like polymerisation. Aldehyde is commonly used in a wide array of materials, including plastics and formica. The Aldehyde compounds are also widely used as an ingredient in perfumes and in the production of pharmaceuticals and dyes. It is also used as solvents and also in certain physiological processes. For example, Vitamin A aldehyde or retinal is important for vision. Glucose and some sugars are also aldehydes.

Summary

1. Both aldehyde and formaldehyde are organic compounds.
2. Formaldehyde consists of one Carbon atom, two Hydrogen atoms and one Oxygen atom. A functional group, aldehyde has a carbonyl centre tied to hydrogen atom with a R group.
3. Formaldehyde is much complicated as it takes on different forms.
4. Aldehydes are mainly derived from alcohol through dehydrogenation or hydrogen removal.
5. Formaldehyde is used in the manufacture of many things including paints, glues, antiseptics, preservatives and resins. Formalin, which is used in embalming, is a name that is very familiar with Formaldehyde.
6. When compared to formaldehydes, the aldehydes come with a pleasant odour.
7. The carbonyl bonding is a characteristic of all aldehyde compounds.
8. Aldehyde is widely used in a wide variety of materials, including plastics and formica. Aldehydes are also widely used as an ingredient in perfumes and in the production of pharmaceuticals and dyes.