How can one differentiate between the organic compounds propanal (CH3CH2CHO) and propanone (CH3COCH3)?

React a sample of each compound with Tollens reagent. The aldehyde (propanal) will be oxidised to a carboxylic acid (propanooic acid) and will form a silver mirror. No change will be observed with the ketone or alternatively Heat a sample of each compound with a solution of acidified potassium dichromate, which is orange. Again, the aldehyde will have been oxidised to a carboxylic acid, and the solution will turn green. The ketone solution will stay orange

JT
Answered by Julie T. Chemistry tutor

4942 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Nitric acid (HNO3) is a strong acid. Ethanoic acid (CH3COOH) is a weak acid. Write an equation to show how ethanoic acid behaves as a weak acid in its reaction with water.


A group 2 metal, M, is reacted with water so that M + 2H2O --> M(OH)2 + H2. 0.162g of metal produces 97.0cm3 of gas at RTP. Identify M.


What is the difference between Covalent and Ionic bonding?


Sort the following compounds in order of increasing boiling point and explain your reasoning: hydrogen, hydrogen fluoride and hydrogen bromide


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning