Aldehydes and ketones are generally soluble in water because:
Correct answer: B. They can form hydrogen bonds with water
- A. They are non-polar
- B. They can form hydrogen bonds with water
- C. They have low molecular weights
- D. They can ionize in water
Explanation
The lone pairs of electrons on the oxygen atom of the carbonyl group can act as hydrogen bond acceptors. This allows lower molecular weight aldehydes and ketones to form hydrogen bonds with water molecules, making them soluble.
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About Aldehydes and Ketones
Aldehydes and ketones contain the polar carbonyl group, but aldehydes are generally more readily oxidised and more reactive than ketones. Coverage includes preparation by oxidation or reduction routes, nucleophilic addition of reagents such as hydrogen cyanide and bisulfite, and tests that distinguish aldehydes from ketones.
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