| Formula / Notation | CH2O |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 50-00-0 |
| Molecular Weight | 30.026 |
| Melting Point | -134 °F (NIOSH, 2024) |
| Boiling Point | -6 °F at 760 mmHg (NIOSH, 2024) |
| Density | 0.815 at -4 °F anhydrous form (EPA, 1998) - Less dense than water; will float |
| Solubility | Miscible (NIOSH, 2024) |
| Appearance | Solids containing varying amounts of formaldehyde, probably as paraformaldehyde (polymers of formula HO(CH2O)xH where x averages about 30). A hazard to the environment. Immediate steps should be ta... |
| Also Known As | formalin; methanal; 50-00-0; formol; Formic aldehyde; Methylene oxide; Oxomethane; Oxymethylene; Methyl aldehyde; Superlysoform |
| Category | Organic Compounds |
What is Formaldehyde?
Formaldehyde (gas) can cause cancer according to an independent committee of scientific and health experts.
Formula & Notation
IUPAC Name: formaldehyde
Other Names / Synonyms: formalin; methanal; 50-00-0; formol; Formic aldehyde; Methylene oxide; Oxomethane; Oxymethylene; Methyl aldehyde; Superlysoform
Properties & Characteristics
Physical Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | -134 °F (NIOSH, 2024) |
| Boiling Point | -6 °F at 760 mmHg (NIOSH, 2024) |
| Density | 0.815 at -4 °F anhydrous form (EPA, 1998) - Less dense than water; will float |
| Molecular Weight | 30.026 |
| Solubility | Miscible (NIOSH, 2024) |
| Appearance | Solids containing varying amounts of formaldehyde, probably as paraformaldehyde (polymers of formula HO(CH2O)xH where x averages about 30). A hazard to the environment. Immediate steps should be ta... |
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Formaldehyde (gas) can cause cancer according to an independent committee of scientific and health experts.
Used as an industrial feedstock, solvent, pharmaceutical intermediate, flavoring agent, or chemical building block.
Flammable or irritant. Many organic compounds are flammable liquids or vapours. Keep away from ignition sources. Consult SDS for specific hazard data.
The formula or notation for Formaldehyde is: CH2O