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

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near Diels-Alder reaction

Cite this Entry

“Diels-Alder reaction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Diels-Alder%20reaction. Accessed 25 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!