Aldehyde vs. Ketones Terminal group
Formaldehyde
The terminal group in aldehydes and ketones is the carbonyl group (-C=O). The difference between aldehydes and ketones lies in the position of this carbonyl group.
Aldehydes have the carbonyl group at the end of the carbon chain, with one hydrogen atom attached to it. For example, formaldehyde (HCHO) and acetaldehyde (CH3CHO) are both aldehydes.
Ketones, on the other hand, have the carbonyl group in the middle of the carbon chain, with two additional carbon atoms attached to it. For example, acetone (CH3COCH3) and butanone (CH3CH2COCH3) are both ketones.
This difference in structure affects the physical and chemical properties of aldehydes and ketones. Aldehydes have a higher boiling point than ketones of similar molecular weight, due to the ability of the carbonyl group to participate in hydrogen bonding with other molecules. Aldehydes are also more reactive towards nucleophiles, due to the presence of the electron-donating hydrogen atom at the end of the carbon chain.
Ketones, on the other hand, are relatively inert towards nucleophiles and require the use of strong bases or acids to react. They are also less susceptible to oxidation than aldehydes, due to the absence of the hydrogen atom at the end of the carbon chain.
More Answers:
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