Which oxidizing agent is used in oxidation of aldehydes into carboxylic acids?
Which oxidizing agent is used in oxidation of aldehydes into carboxylic acids?
Explanation
Acidified potassium permanganate (KMnO4), acidified potassium dichromate (K2Cr2O7), and silver nitrate (AgNO3 (in the form of Tollens' reagent) can all oxidize aldehydes to carboxylic acids.
Acidified KMnO4:
- A strong oxidizing agent that readily converts aldehydes to carboxylic acids.
- It changes color from purple to colorless during the reaction.
Acidified K2Cr2O7:
- Also a strong oxidizing agent that can oxidize aldehydes to carboxylic acids.
- It changes color from orange to green during the reaction.
AgNO3 (in Tollens' reagent):
- A milder oxidizing agent compared to the previous two, but still capable of oxidizing aldehydes.
- It gives a characteristic silver mirror precipitate when reacting with an aldehyde.