Diels-Alder reaction

noun

Diels-Al·​der reaction
ˈdēlˈsäldə(r)-
: an addition reaction in which a diene unites with the double or triple bond of an unsaturated compound to form a 6-membered ring (as in tetrahydro-phthalic anhydride)

Word History

Etymology

after Otto Diels †1954 & Kurt Alder †1958 German chemists

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Cite this Entry

“Diels-Alder reaction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Diels-Alder%20reaction. Accessed 5 Oct. 2024.

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