What is propionaldehyde also known as?

Propionaldehyde is indeed commonly known as propanal. This compound is an aldehyde with the chemical formula C3H6O, characterized by having a carbonyl group (C=O) at the end of a three-carbon chain. The name "propanal" reflects its structure, where "prop-" indicates a three-carbon chain and "-anal" signifies that it is an aldehyde.

In organic nomenclature, ethers and aldehydes are named according to the longest carbon chain, and substituents or functional groups are named based on their presence. Since propionaldehyde has three carbons and contains an aldehyde group, the correct IUPAC name for it is propanal. Understanding this nomenclature is crucial in organic chemistry, particularly in distinguishing between aldehydes and other functional groups.