other functionalities in the molecule, the acetal or ketal can be reverted back to a carbonyl with
aqueous acid, a step called deprotection. These reactions are shown in Figure 5.11.
Figure 5.11. Protection of a Ketone by Ketal Formation Using a Dialcohol
MCAT Concept Check 5.2:
Before you move on, assess your understanding of the material with these questions.
What will happen to primary and secondary alcohols, respectively, in the presence of
strong oxidizing agents?
Primary alcohols:
Secondary alcohols:
How can primary alcohols be oxidized to aldehydes?