Which of the following tests can distinguish between aldehydes and ketones?
Correct answer: A. Tollen's test
- A. Tollen's test
- B. Reaction with hydrazine
- C. Reaction with 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine
- D. Reaction with ammonia
Explanation
Tollen's test involves the use of a silver mirror test to differentiate between aldehydes and ketones. In this test, Tollens' reagent (ammoniacal silver nitrate) reacts with aldehydes but not with ketones. Aldehydes are oxidized by Tollens' reagent to form carboxylic acids, while ketones do not undergo this reaction. This oxidation of aldehydes by Tollens' reagent results in the formation of a silver mirror on the inner surface of the test tube or container. Therefore, option a is correct.
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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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