A chemist synthesised two solutions A and B, they know one solution is an aldehyde and the other a ketone. Suggest how the chemist could identify which is which and describe any observations they would make

Tollens reagent could be used to identify the the solutions A and B, as the aldehyde solution will oxidise to a carboxylic acid and a ‘silver mirror’ will be observed. Ketones cannot be oxidised further and therefore no reaction.

Answered by Hugo J. Chemistry tutor

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