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General Science • ChemistryMedium

What is the primary organic product obtained when calcium acetate is subjected to dry distillation?

A. Formaldehyde
B. Acetone✓ Correct Answer
C. Acetic acid
D. Acetaldehyde

💡 Solution & Explanation

Dry distillation of calcium acetate thermally decomposes the salt to yield acetone along with calcium carbonate as a solid byproduct. Heating formates produces formaldehyde, while other carboxylate salts yield distinct ketones or aldehydes depending on their molecular structure. Acetone is an important industrial solvent and organic chemical feedstock used in the manufacture of plastics and acrylics.

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