Answer to Question #209156 in General Chemistry for Nelly-Wise

Question

What oxidizing agent that can oxidize alkanals but not alkanones

Answer 1

 A solution of chromic acid (H₂CrO₄) and sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) in water is known as the Jones reagent. Primary alcohols can be converted to aldehydes and when secondary alcohols are dissolved in acetone, titration with the Jones reagent oxidizes them to ketones rapidly and in high yield without disturbing any double or triple bonds that may be present while the products are extracted via distillation as the aldehyde is formed. The Jones reagent can also oxidize primary allylic alcohols to the corresponding aldehydes.

Reference:

• Smith, M. B. (2020). March's advanced organic chemistry: reactions, mechanisms, and structure. John Wiley & Sons.