can be isolated by mild CAN oxidation. CAN is used to cleave para-methoxybenzyl and 3,4-dimethoxybenzyl ethers, which are protecting groups for alcohols. Two equivalents of CAN are required for each equivalent of para-methoxybenzyl ether. The alcohol is released, and the para-methoxybenzyl ether converts to para-methoxybenzaldehyde. The balanced equation is as follows: Other applications CAN is also a component of chrome etchant, a material that is used in the production of photomasks and liquid crystal displays. References External links Oxidizing Agents: Cerium Ammonium Nitrate Ammonium compounds Cerium(IV) compounds Nitrates Coordination complexes Oxidizing agents