Question:

What is metaldehyde?

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Acetaldehyde polymerises in the presence of an acid, and the product depends on the temperature.
Updated On: Nov 12, 2026
  • Tetramer of acetaldehyde.
  • Dimer of acetaldehyde.
  • Trimer of acetaldehyde.
  • Trimer of formaldehyde.
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept
Acetaldehyde polymerises in the presence of a little acid such as dry HCl or \(\text{H}_2\text{SO}_4\).

Step 2: Products
At room temperature it gives paraldehyde, the cyclic trimer. At low temperatures, below about \(0^{\circ}\text{C}\), it gives metaldehyde, the cyclic tetramer.

Step 3: Compare the options
The trimer of formaldehyde is trioxane. Paraldehyde is the trimer of acetaldehyde.

Final Answer:
Metaldehyde is the tetramer of acetaldehyde. \[ \boxed{\text{(A) }\text{Tetramer of acetaldehyde.}} \]
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