Describe chemical test/s you could use to determine the identity of a carbonyl compound.

Use Brady's Reagent (2,4-DNPH) to test for the presence of the C=O bond in a carbonyl compound. The formation of a yellow precipitate indicates a positive test result. Then determine the melting point of the product to identify the original carbonyl.

Alternatively you can use Tollen's reagent to determine whether a carbonyl is a ketone or an aldehyde. As Tollen's is a (weak) oxidising agent, there will be no reaction upon addition to a ketone, but a silver precipitate will form with an aldehyde. 

MB
Answered by Megan B. Chemistry tutor

7434 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What are the strongest intermolecular forces in CH4, NH3 and H2O? From this deduce which has the highest boiling point, giving reasoning.


How can crude oil be used as a source of hydrocarbons?


By comparing the forces involved, explain why hydrogen iodide (HI) would have a higher boiling point than hydrogen bromide (HBr)?


Name an appropriate reducing agent to convert ethanal to ethanol


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