Summary A method for preparing L-xylose from sorbitol by way of a diethylidenesorbitol which is oxidized by lead tetraacetate, has been restudied and the yields improved at every stage. Following oxidations in aqueous solution, the free sugar has been isolated directly in addition to the two derivatives which were obtained by the previous author. The aldehydo-2, 4, 3, 5-diethylidene-~-xylose presumed previously to be an intermediate in the preparation ...