Brady’s test for aldehydes and ketones

Test tubes containing yellow, red and orange substances formed by the combination of two solutions

Source: © Shutterstock

Identify aldehydes and ketones using Brady’s reagent (2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine) in this microscale experiment. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

In this practical, students add various liquid aldehydes and ketones to 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine solution in a well-plate or spotting tile to form solid derivatives. They then do the same test with methanol and ethanol, showing that the reaction does not occur with alcohols.

Make your lessons pop

Choose an account option to continue exploring our full range of articles and teaching resources

Free

Free access for everyone, everywhere. If you only need a few resources, start here.


What's included

  • One free teaching resource each month
  • Five free Education in Chemistry articles each month
  • Personalised email alerts and bookmarks