Beginner Topic 801 of 1102 Organic Chemistry
Ketones
Compounds with a carbonyl group between two carbons.
In-depth explanation of Ketones
Ketones contain a carbonyl group bonded to two carbon atoms, so the carbonyl lies within the carbon chain. The name ends in -one. Ketones resist mild oxidation because they have no hydrogen attached to the carbonyl carbon, and they are polar, with boiling points between those of alkanes and alcohols because they cannot form hydrogen bonds with each other. They are reactive toward nucleophiles, though less so than aldehydes, because the two alkyl groups donate electron density and hinder attack.
Going deeper: Ketones
Key ideas: Ketones (R2C=O) are less reactive than aldehydes due to two electron-donating alkyl groups and steric hindrance. Made by oxidising secondary alcohols, Friedel-Crafts acylation, hydration of alkynes, or ozonolysis. They resist mild oxidation (no Tollens or Fehling response); strong oxidants cleave C-C bonds (Popoff rule). Methyl ketones give the iodoform test. Acetone is a common polar aprotic solvent.
Common mistakes and connections: Students claim ketones cannot be oxidised at all; they can be cleaved under harsh conditions. Another error is predicting the more hindered ketone adds nucleophiles faster. Links to Grignard addition giving tertiary alcohols, enolates, Baeyer-Villiger oxidation and tautomerism.
Visualization of Ketones
Acetone is the simplest ketone, with a planar carbonyl carbon flanked by two methyl groups. The interactive lesson shows this as a live animation or chart.
Worked example and use case
Acetone, propanone, is a common laboratory solvent and the active ingredient in many nail polish removers.
Frequently asked questions about Ketones
What is Ketones?
Compounds with a carbonyl group between two carbons.
Is Ketones a beginner, intermediate or advanced topic?
Ketones is a beginner topic in Organic Chemistry. It needs no earlier chemistry lessons and is a good starting point.
What should I learn before Ketones?
Study these earlier topics in Organic Chemistry first: Ethers, Williamson Ether Synthesis, Aldehydes.
What comes after Ketones?
The next topics in Organic Chemistry are Nucleophilic Addition to Carbonyls and Aldol Condensation.
Can I practise Ketones with quizzes?
Yes. The interactive lesson includes a self-check question on Ketones, and the Organic Chemistry quiz draws on every topic in this area.
Where Ketones fits in Organic Chemistry
Ketones is topic 73 of 148 in Organic Chemistry.