| Aldehydes and ketones |
| CARBONYL COMPOUNDS: |
| The carbonyl compounds include the aldehydes and ketones. The carbonyl functional group (C = O) consists of a carbon atom double–bonded to an oxygen atom. The carbonyl group is strongly polar (Cδ+ = Oδ–), and this has a marked effect on the physical and chemical properties of the carbonyl compounds. |
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| Carbonyl compounds are commonplace in our everyday lives. The poisonous aldehyde–based compound used in slug pellets and the ketones used as solvents for nail varnish and for a wide variety of industrial processes have physical and chemical properties determined by the carbonyl group. |
| The characteristic odor of cherries is caused by benzaldehyde. Aldehydes and ketones comprise a number of interesting everyday compounds. Aldehydes such as vanillin and cinnemaldehyde (odour of cinnamon) impart odors familiar to all of us. The odor of garlic is produced by ketones. |
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