What is the difference between an aldehyde and a ketone, and what type of molecule can they each be reduced to?

Both aldehydes and ketones have a carbonyl functional group (C=O), however in aldhydes the carbonyl carbon atom is the terminal carbon of the chain, whereas in ketones the carbonyl carbon has two alkyl groups attached to it. 

Aldehydes can be reduced to primary alcohols, but ketones are reduced to secondary alcohols.

AP
Answered by Alastair P. Chemistry tutor

8272 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What are geometrical isomers? Explain, structurally, why geometrical isomers exist.


Using chemical reagents in test tubes, distinguish between isomers: A CH3CO(CH2)2CHOH, B CH3CH(OH)(CH2)2CHO and C C(CH3)2OHCOCH3


How do induced dipole to dipole interactions (London forces) occur?


Which is more reactive, an alkane or an alkene and why?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning