The reaction used to distinguish between aldehydes and ketones is:
Correct answer: C. Tollens' test
- A. Iodoform test
- B. Lucas test
- C. Tollens' test
- D. Benedict's test
Explanation
Tollens' test, also known as the silver mirror test, is a classic method to differentiate aldehydes from ketones. Aldehydes are easily oxidized by the Tollens' reagent ([Ag(NH₃)₂]⁺) to form a carboxylate, while the silver ions are reduced to metallic silver, forming a mirror.
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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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