Definition

A type of organic compound that is a thick, colorless to pale yellow liquid, made from acetaldehyde, and is used in making perfumes and as a solvent.

Example

The chemist used aldol in the reaction to create a new compound.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a compound called aldol?

Yeah, I think it's used in some chemical reactions, right?

Exactly! It's interesting how aldol can form from aldehydes.

It really is — chemistry has so many cool processes!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Aldol is derived from the combination of "aldehyde" (from Latin *aldehydum*, meaning an organic compound containing a carbonyl group) and "alcohol" (from Latin *alcohol*, meaning a distilled substance). The term refers to a compound formed from the condensation of an aldehyde and a ketone, specifically in organic chemistry.

Memory Tip

Think of 'aldehyde' as a type of organic compound and 'alcohol' as a distilled substance; together, they help you remember that 'aldol' is a compound formed from these two types of organic molecules.

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