Difference Between Aldehydes And Ketones: Ketones and aldehydes, integral components of the NEET syllabus in organic chemistry, are organic compounds featuring a distinctive carbonyl group. These carbonic compounds are synthetically producible.
The crux of their differentiation lies in their chemical structure. Several tests help in knowing the differences between aldehydes and ketones. Some tests include Schiff’s, Tollen’s, Fehling’s, and Sodium hydroxide tests. These examinations show unique reactions to differentiate between these functional groups. Proficiency in recognizing and interpreting these tests is important for aspiring medical students who wish to cover the NEET syllabus.Difference Between Aldehydes And Ketones | ||
---|---|---|
Parameter | Aldehydes | Ketones |
Functional Group | RCHO (Carbonyl group at the end of the carbon chain) | RCOR' (Carbonyl group within the carbon chain) |
General Formula | RCHO | RCOR' |
Naming | Named by replacing the -e in the corresponding alkane with -al | Named by replacing the -e in the corresponding alkane with -one |
IUPAC Suffix | -al | -one |
Location of Carbonyl Group | Terminal (at the end of the carbon chain) | Internal (within the carbon chain) |
Hydrogen Bonding | Aldehydes can participate in hydrogen bonding with H of -OH or -NH groups | Ketones can participate in hydrogen bonding with H of -OH or -NH groups |
Boiling Point | Generally lower boiling points compared to ketones | Generally higher boiling points compared to aldehydes |
Reactivity | Aldehydes are generally more reactive than ketones | Ketones are generally less reactive than aldehydes |
Common Examples | Formaldehyde (HCHO), Acetaldehyde (CH3CHO) | Acetone (CH3COCH3), Acetophenone (C6H5COCH3) |
Examples
Examples