Organic molecules carbonyl compounds: formaldehyde

Organic compounds containing a carbonyl functional group, J C=0, such as aldehydes, ketones, esters, and carboxylic acids, exhibit a low order of toxicity. The lower aldehydes, such as formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and acrolein, are severe irritants to the eyes and respiratory tract. Acrolein is a severe lachry-mator. Lower carboxylic acids are corrosive substances. Formic acid is a poison, but the toxic effects arise as a result of lowering of the blood pH below normal levels and have little to do with the carbonyl group in the molecule. 

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