Question

What is Tollens' reagent?

Answer 1

Tollens' reagent:

• The alkaline solution of ammonical Silver nitrate solution is known as Tollens' reagent.
• Its chemical formula is $\left[\mathrm{Ag}{\left({\mathrm{NH}}_3\right)}_2\right]\mathrm{OH}$.

Uses of Tollens' reagent:

• It is used to detect the presence of an aldehyde, aromatic aldehyde and alpha-hydroxy ketone functional groups.
• It is also used to distinguish between aldehydes and ketones. This test is known as Tollens' test.