Most of us remember hearing about formaldehyde in science class and know scientists use it for things like preserving frogs in jars. However, formaldehyde has several more common and practical uses.
But first, what is formaldehyde? Formaldehyde is a strong-smelling organic compound that exists as a colorless gas at room temperature; it also has a grand history in the field of chemistry. This gas blends well with water to create a mixture called formalin—when we see those frogs in jars, it's generally formalin since the compound is in liquid form. Whether industries use formalin or formaldehyde, here are some of the most frequent uses you may encounter in your daily life.
Uses in Building Materials
Companies frequently use formaldehyde in building materials such as particleboard or resins. Using formaldehyde in wood allows for greater sustainability and helps fill in gaps when trying to utilize wood that would otherwise get thrown away. Experts ensure that the amount of the chemical used in wood products doesn't present any risk to people.
Uses in Food
Formaldehyde may not seem like the type of product we want in our food, but chemists and nutritionists have found ways to use this organic compound to our advantage. In a similar principle to how a jar of formalin preserves specimens, formaldehyde works to extend the shelf life of certain foods, keeping them safe and edible for greater periods of time. Experts frequently use the gas as a method of preservation for foods like fruits, fish, and vegetables.
Uses in Cleaning Products
One of the most common and practical uses of formaldehyde is in our everyday cleaning products. It's easy to imagine the chemical in certain detergents, but you can also find it in paper towels and, surprisingly, many air fresheners. You wouldn't expect a gas known for its pungent and unpleasant aroma to work as an air freshener, but it works great as an ingredient for keeping the air around us clean and fragrant.
As communities gather this Sunday, December 7th, to remember, we look back at a single morning that reshaped a nation, examine the causes and consequences of the attack, and reflect on how Hawai‘i and the world carried forward the work of healing and reconciliation.
A Morning That Changed the World
On a clear morning that remains etched into the pages of history, aircraft appeared over Pearl Harbor and the United States Pacific Fleet was struck in a surprise assault. In fewer than two hours, battleships burned, aircraft were destroyed on the ground, and more than 2,400 American service members and civilians lost their lives. The attack thrust the United States into the global conflict of World War II and set in motion a series of events that would transform both the Pacific and the world.
Trucks and SUVs aren’t designed just for driving on paved roads. With the surrounding natural beauty of the Carolinas, you want to explore more of what the states have to offer.
If you're new to horse riding, one aspect you might worry about is safety. This activity involves being on an elevated mount, moving at high speeds, and navigating unpredictable terrain, all things that could lead to injuries if you don't take precautions.
Hydroponic gardening is an innovative way to grow plants without soil, using nutrient-rich water instead. This method can lead to faster growth and higher yields, all from the comfort of your home. Before you dive in, it's important to understand the basics to ensure your gardening journey is a success. This guide will walk you through what you need to know before starting a hydroponic garden, helping you begin with confidence.
Laguna Beach, California, offers more than just its iconic coastline and vibrant arts scene. The city’s layout and local regulations make it an ideal location for scooter riders. This post will explore exactly what makes Laguna Beach scooter friendly, covering its scenic routes, traffic conditions, and convenient parking.
Related Bing News Results Global Pediatric Surgery: Improving Access, Quality, and Outcomes Fri, 28 Nov 2025 02:19:00 GMT Pediatric surgical conditions account for a substantial portion of the global disease burden in children, yet safe, timely, and affordable surgical care ... Global Patterns of Earthquake Clustering Tue, 25 Nov 2025 00:10:00 GMT The extreme catastrophic nature of earthquakes is known for centuries due to resulted devastation in many of them. The abruptness along with apparent ...
