Definition

A clear, highly flammable liquid used in the production of synthetic materials and resins.

Example

Butyraldehyde is commonly used in the manufacture of plastics and other chemical products.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of butyraldehyde?

No, I haven't. What is it used for?

It's actually a chemical used in making synthetic resins.

That sounds interesting! I didn't know chemicals could have such specific uses.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Butyraldehyde is formed from "butyr-" (from Latin *butyrum*, meaning butter) and "aldehyde" (from the German *Aldehyd*, which is a contraction of *Alkohol dehydrogenatum*, meaning dehydrogenated alcohol). The term refers to a compound related to butter and characterized by its aldehyde functional group.

Memory Tip

Think of 'butter' ('butyr-') to remember that butyraldehyde is related to the smell of butter, combined with the idea of a 'dehydrogenated alcohol' ('aldehyde').

Visually Confused Words