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What are the two most common reactions for aldehydes and ketones?

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Final answer:

The two most common reactions for aldehydes and ketones are oxidation and addition reactions. Aldehydes can be easily oxidized to form carboxylic acids, while ketones resist oxidation. Aldehydes and ketones can also undergo addition reactions with nucleophiles.

Step-by-step explanation:

The two most common reactions for aldehydes and ketones are oxidation and addition reactions.

Oxidation: Aldehydes can be easily oxidized to form carboxylic acids. This reaction involves the loss of electrons and gain of oxygen atoms. Ketones, on the other hand, resist oxidation.

Addition reactions: Aldehydes and ketones can undergo addition reactions with nucleophiles like water, alcohols, and amines. This reaction involves the addition of a nucleophile to the carbonyl carbon.

Some common aldehydes and ketones include formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, acetone, and benzaldehyde. They have various uses in industry, such as solvents, precursors for pharmaceuticals, and flavoring agents.

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User Alex Baranosky
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