Compounds having the structure
R2C(OR')2 (
R' ≠
H) and thus diethers of geminal diols. Originally, the term was confined to derivatives of aldehydes (one
R =
H), but it now applies equally to derivatives of ketones (neither
R =
H). Mixed acetals have different
R' groups.
See also: acetonides, ketals, acylals, hemiacetals
Source:
PAC, 1995, 67, 1307. 'Glossary of class names of organic compounds and reactivity intermediates based on structure (IUPAC Recommendations 1995)' on page 1310 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac199567081307)