what is a simple test to detect the presence of a carbonyl and to identify it?

A carbonyl is either a ketone or an aldehyde. In order to see whether the carbonyl group is present (C double bond O), 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine must be used. If an orange/yellow precipate is formed, then a carbonyl group is present. Then, you must purify the precipitate by recrystalisation and measure its melting point. then compare the melting point to known values to determine the compounds identity.

ZM
Answered by Zahra M. Chemistry tutor

23476 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

A white substance is placed on the table in front of you, explain what methods/techniques you could use to determine what compound the substance is


Thinking about the periodicity of the period 3 elements, explain the structure of the Sodium and Phosphorus Oxides and the acid-base behaviour of the Oxide solutions.


The pH of pure water can vary depending on the temperature it is held at. Does that mean pure water can be acidic or alkaline?


How does HBr add across a double bond? Predict the regiochemistry when HBr is reacted with 2-methylpropene


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