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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Benzaldehyde and Acetophenone?

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Benzaldehyde and acetophenone are two different types of organic compounds. The main difference between them is their chemical structure and the reactions they undergo.

  • Benzaldehyde is an aromatic aldehyde with the chemical formula C6H5CHO. It has a phenyl group attached to an aldehyde functional group and is the simplest aromatic aldehyde.
  • Acetophenone is an aromatic ketone with the chemical formula C8H8O. It has a phenyl group attached to a ketone functional group.

One simple chemical test that can be used to distinguish between benzaldehyde and acetophenone is the Tollen's test. Tollen's test is used to identify aldehydes, and benzaldehyde, being an aldehyde, reacts with the reagent to produce a red-brown Cu2O precipitate. On the other hand, acetophenone is a ketone and does not react with Tollen's reagent.

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  • What is the Difference Between Benzaldehyde and Acetophenone?
  • Comparative Table: Benzaldehyde vs Acetophenone

    • Comparative Table: Benzaldehyde vs Acetophenone

    Benzaldehyde and acetophenone are two distinct organic compounds. Here is a table comparing their differences:

    Property Benzaldehyde Acetophenone
    Chemical Formula C6H5CHO C8H8O
    Type of Compound Aromatic Aldehyde Aromatic Ketone
    Structure Phenyl group attached to an aldehyde functional group Consists of a benzene ring and a formyl group
    Molar Mass 106.12 g/mol 122.14 g/mol
    Melting Point -57.12 °C -17.9 °C
    Boiling Point 178.1 °C 235.7 °C
    Solubility in Water Slightly soluble Insoluble
    Production Methods Liquid phase chlorination and oxidation Derived from benzaldehyde
    Uses Almond flavoring in foods and scented products Fragrances, dyes, and pharmaceuticals

    Benzaldehyde and acetophenone can be distinguished using chemical tests such as Tollen's test and iodoform test. Benzaldehyde is an aromatic aldehyde, while acetophenone is an aromatic ketone.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.