Is alkyd the same as acrylic?

No, alkyd is not the same as acrylic, they are different types of paint with different chemistry, though both can be used for similar applications and modern hybrids blur the lines. Alkyd paint is oil-based or modified oil-based, made from alkyd resins derived from polyols and fatty acids, cures by oxidation, has strong odor, slow drying, requires mineral spirits for cleanup, cures to very hard, smooth, glossy finish with excellent leveling, but yellows over time and has higher VOCs. Acrylic paint is water-based, made from acrylic polymer emulsion, dries fast by water evaporation, low odor, cleans up with soap and water, remains flexible, resists cracking and yellowing, low VOCs, ideal for walls and exterior. Acrylic is more flexible and breathable, alkyd is harder and more durable for trim. However, there are waterborne alkyds that are alkyd resins emulsified in water, which combine alkyd hardness with water cleanup, sometimes labeled as acrylic alkyd hybrid, which causes confusion. So traditional alkyd and acrylic are not same, alkyd is oil-based hard enamel, acrylic is water-based flexible paint, with different properties and uses, though hybrids exist that combine both.