what is a simple test to detect the presence of a carbonyl and to identify it?

A carbonyl is either a ketone or an aldehyde. In order to see whether the carbonyl group is present (C double bond O), 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine must be used. If an orange/yellow precipate is formed, then a carbonyl group is present. Then, you must purify the precipitate by recrystalisation and measure its melting point. then compare the melting point to known values to determine the compounds identity.

ZM
Answered by Zahra M. Chemistry tutor

23635 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is a 'foolproof' way to balance any combustion reaction?


Alcohols can be converted into alkenes by removing water. The alcohol 3-methylpent-2-ol forms a mixture of organic products when dehydrated. Describe the conditions of this reaction. Name all the organic products.


What are the strongest intermolecular forces in CH4, NH3 and H2O? From this deduce which has the highest boiling point, giving reasoning.


What is Le Chatelier's principle?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning