Final answer:
The main difference between aldehydes and ketones lies in the position of the carbonyl group; at the end of the chain in aldehydes and within the chain in ketones, influencing their chemical reactivity and oxidation properties.
Step-by-step explanation:
Difference Between Aldehydes and Ketones
The primary difference between aldehydes and ketones is the positioning of the carbonyl group within the molecule. In aldehydes, the carbonyl group is bonded to at least one hydrogen atom and is located at the end of a carbon chain, making it more accessible and reactive in chemical reactions. Conversely, a ketone features the carbonyl group bonded to two carbon atoms, situated within the carbon chain. This structural difference affects their chemical properties, for instance, aldehydes are more easily oxidized to carboxylic acids while ketones are more resistant to oxidation.
Additionally, the carbon atom of the carbonyl group in aldehydes carries a more positive charge (more δ+) due to the lesser electron-donating effect of hydrogen compared to the alkyl groups in ketones which can donate electrons through hyperconjugation. Thus, the reactivity of aldehydes as electrophiles is higher than that of ketones.