What structure does an aldehyde feature?

An aldehyde is characterized by the presence of a carbonyl group (C=O) located at the end of the carbon chain. This structural feature is significant because it influences the chemical properties and reactivity of aldehydes. The carbonyl carbon in an aldehyde is bonded to at least one hydrogen atom, which distinguishes it from other carbonyl-containing compounds, such as ketones, where the carbonyl group is found within the carbon chain.

The placement of the carbonyl group at the terminal position of the molecule not only determines the aldehyde's nomenclature but also its functional characteristics, making aldehydes generally more reactive than ketones due to the accessibility of the carbonyl carbon for nucleophilic attack. This is a crucial aspect in various chemical reactions and synthesis procedures where aldehydes are involved.