Question detail

What is the primary use of Tollens' reagent in organic chemistry?

Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.

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At a glance

MCQ

Type

practice

Style

Topic

Aldehydes and ketones (A-level only)

Question

A. To oxidize aldehydes to carboxylic acids
B. To reduce ketones to alcohols
C. To distinguish between aldehydes and ketones
D. To identify alcohols in a mixture

Answer

To distinguish between aldehydes and ketones

Explanation

Tollens' reagent is specifically used to identify aldehydes by producing a silver mirror, while ketones do not react. This distinction is crucial in organic chemistry for identifying functional groups.

Common mistake

Confusing Aldehydes and Ketones

Students often confuse aldehydes and ketones, thinking they are the same due to both containing a carbonyl group.

Remember that aldehydes have the carbonyl group at the end of the carbon chain, while ketones have it within the chain.

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