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Frequently Asked Question
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Draw the structure of hemiacetal
Accepted Answer
A hemiacetal is formed by the reaction of an alcohol with an aldehyde. It has the following general structure:
R¹-CH(OH)-OR²
Where R¹ and R² are alkyl or aryl groups. The hemiacetal contains a carbon atom bonded to both an -OH group and an -OR group. The carbon atom is also bonded to a hydrogen atom and an alkyl or aryl group.
Here is a visual representation of a hemiacetal:
O
||
C-H
/
R¹ OR²
The formation of a hemiacetal is reversible, and the equilibrium can be shifted towards the formation of the hemiacetal by using excess alcohol or by removing water from the reaction mixture.
Hemiacetals are important intermediates in the synthesis of many organic compounds, including carbohydrates and sugars.
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