Describe how you would differentiate a sample of butanal and butan-2-one.

You would add tollen's reagent to both samples. The butanal would form a silver mirror, whereas, butan-2-one would remain unchanged. This is due to the fact that an aldehyde can be oxidised to a carboxylic acid and an reduce the oxidising reagent to solid silver (mirror) and ammonia. However, ketones cannot be oxidised so the reagent cannot be reduced.

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

The reversible reaction 2 SO2 (g) + O2 (g) <-> 2 SO3 (g) has a delta H value of -197 kJ/mol. Use Le Chatelier's principle to explain what conditions would give the highest equilibrium yield and why industry uses different conditions. (5 marks)


The intermolecular interactions between halogen molecules are Van der Waals' forces. Explain how these Van der Waal's forces arise between halogen molecules.


Describe and explain the trend in first ionisation energy down group 2 of the periodic table.


What is the difference between stereoisomerism and optical isomerism?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences