Which compound is the easiest to oxidise:
Correct answer: B. Alcohol
- A. Alkane
- B. Alcohol
- C. Aldehyde
- D. Ketone
Explanation
Alcohols are the easiest to oxidize compared to other compounds listed. When alcohols undergo oxidation, they lose hydrogen and gain oxygen, forming aldehydes or ketones depending on the type of alcohol being oxidized. This oxidation process involves the breaking of a C-H bond and the formation of a C=O bond.For example, primary alcohols (R-CH2-OH) can be oxidized to aldehydes (R-CHO), while secondary alcohols (R1-CH(OH)-R2) can be oxidized to ketones (R1-CO-R2).
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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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