Dihydroxylation is a chemical reaction that involves the addition of two hydroxyl groups (-OH) to a double bond in an organic compound. This process typically occurs in alkenes, where the double bond is converted into a saturated compound with two new hydroxyl groups. Dihydroxylation can be achieved through various methods, including the use of reagents like osmium tetroxide or potassium permanganate. The reaction is significant in organic chemistry as it helps in the synthesis of alcohols and can be used to modify the properties of molecules. Dihydroxylation is also important in the study of stereochemistry, as it can lead to the formation of different stereoisomers depending on the orientation of the added hydroxyl groups.