Describe two different test tube reactions to identify the following organic compounds: propanal and benzoic acid.

There are several different answers one could make and an exam question would just require one for each. 

1) Propanal - from the ending "al" this is an aldehyde.

        - Add Tollens' reagent. Positive result: Silver mirror formed.

        - Add Fehling's / Benedict Solution. Positive result: Red precipitate formed.

        - Acidified potassium dichromate. Positive result: Orange to green (due to oxidation). 

2) Benzoic acid - You probably have not come across this in the lab at school. Nevertheless from the name you can work out that it is a carboxylic acid. 

        - Add Sodium carbonate/ Sodium hydrogen carbonate. Positive result: Effervescence is observed. 

DD
Answered by Daniel D. Chemistry tutor

14908 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why is CO2 a linear molecule whereas H2O has a v-shaped geometry?


Explain the geometry and bond angles in a NH3 molecule


Explain why Xenon had a lower first ionisation enthalpy than Neon. (3 marks)


How does the structure and bonding of alkanes differ to that of alkenes?


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