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Deprotection of a dimethylacetal with HBr typically proceeds via acid-catalyzed hydrolysis. The HBr acts as a strong acid, protonating the acetal oxygen, which then facilitates the loss of a methanol molecule. The resulting carbocation intermediate is then attacked by water, leading to the formation of the aldehyde or ketone and methanol. The reaction is usually carried out in an aqueous solvent, such as water or methanol, and requires heating.