Question

What is formalin? Give one use of it.

Answer 1

Formalin

1. The naturally occurring organic compound is Formaldehyde.
2. Formaldehyde is the simplest among all the Aldehydes, and has a pungent smell.
3. The Formaldehyde is stored in the aqueous solution to prevent it from polymerization.
4. Formalin is stored in an aqueous solution that contains $8\%$ Methanol, $52\%$ water and $40\%$ of Formaldehyde.
5. Therefore, Formalin is defined as the aqueous solution of Formaldehyde, having chemical formula$\mathbf{\left(}\mathbf{HCHO}\mathbf{\right)}$.

Uses of Formalin:

1. Preservation of biological specimens
2. Antiseptics
3. Disinfectants

Hence, the aqueous solution of $40\%$Formaldehyde is known as Formalin and can be used for biological specimens, disinfectants, etc.