How can an aldehyde be distinguished from a ketone?

An aldehyde will react with Tollen's reagent to form a characteristic silver mirror, whereas a ketone will not react. This is because an aldehyde can be oxidised to a carboxylic acid, reducing Tollen's reagent, whereas a ketone cannot be oxidised so cannot take part in the reaction.

KF
Answered by Katherine F. Chemistry tutor

4225 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain why atomic radius decreases across a period


How does acidic buffer work?


Can you explain Le Chatelier's Principle?


Give the molecular formula of benzene. Give the Kekule structure of benzene and then explain why this structure is not correct. Give the accepted structure for benzene (5 marks).


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences