Ketals

Definition

Ketals are a class of organic compounds formed by the reaction of ketones with alcohols in the presence of an acid catalyst. They consist of a central carbon atom bonded to two alkyl or aryl groups and two ether-like oxygen atoms.

Related terms

Ketones:

Organic compounds characterized by a carbonyl group (C=O) bonded to two alkyl or aryl groups.

Alcohols:

Organic molecules that contain one or more hydroxyl (-OH) groups attached to a saturated carbon atom.

Acid Catalyst:

A substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process, often used to facilitate the formation of ketals from ketones and alcohols