The general formula of homologous series of both aldehydes and ketones is:
Correct answer: B. CnH2nO
- A. C2nHnO
- B. CnH2nO
- C. C2nHnOH
- D. CnHnO2n
Explanation
Option B is correct because this formula represents the general molecular formula for both aldehydes and ketones. In this homologous series, the carbon backbone increases by one carbon atom, and each member differs from the next by a -CHO (aldehyde) or -CO- (ketone) functional group. The formula CnH2nO captures the proportional increase in carbon and hydrogen atoms in these compounds while retaining the oxygen atom constant.
Last updated
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.
Practise Aldehydes and Ketones
679 free Aldehydes and Ketones MCQs from Chemistry, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.
Exams that ask Chemistry questions like this
Chemistry is on 12 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.