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What is the compound in Tollens reagent used to distinguish between aldehydes and ketones? Give equation

User Renz
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Answer:

Explanation:Tollens' reagent, also known as silver mirror test, is used to distinguish between aldehydes and ketones. The reagent contains the compound silver nitrate (AgNO3) dissolved in aqueous ammonia (NH3). The reaction involves the reduction of silver ions by the aldehyde to form a silver mirror on the inner surface of the reaction vessel.

The equation for the reaction is as follows:

Aldehyde + Tollens' reagent → Carboxylic Acid + Silver mirror

For example, using formaldehyde (HCHO) as the aldehyde:

HCHO + 2Ag(NH3)2OH → HCOOH + 2Ag + 3NH3 + H2O

User Cyrus Dsouza
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