Oxidation of Aldehydes and Ketones

Introduction:

• Aldehydes and ketones are organic compounds containing the carbonyl group (C=O).
• They can undergo oxidation reactions.

Oxidation of Aldehydes:

• Aldehydes can be oxidised to form carboxylic acids.
• This oxidation involves the conversion of the carbonyl group (C=O) into a carboxyl group (COOH).

Oxidation of Ketones:

• Ketones do not undergo oxidation under normal conditions. They are relatively stable.

Reagents Used for Oxidation:

• The most commonly used reagents for the oxidation of aldehydes are potassium dichromate (K₂Cr₂O₇) or acidified potassium permanganate (KMnO₄).

Reaction Equations:

1. Oxidation of Aldehydes:

• Aldehyde + [O] (oxidising agent) → Carboxylic Acid
• Example:
• Ethanol + [O] → Ethanoic Acid (Acetic Acid)
  • (CH₃CHO + [O] → CH₃COOH)

1. Ketones Do Not Undergo Oxidation:

• Ketone + [O] (oxidising agent) → No Reaction
• Example:
• Propanone + [O] → No Reaction
  • (CH₃COCH₃ + [O] → No Reaction)

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Oxidation of Aldehydes and Ketones

Key Points:

• Aldehydes can be oxidised to form carboxylic acids.
• Ketones do not undergo oxidation.
• Common oxidising agents include potassium dichromate ($K_2Cr_2O_7$) and acidified potassium permanganate ($KMnO_4$).

Importance:

• The oxidation of aldehydes and the stability of ketones have important implications in various chemical reactions and organic synthesis.