Conclusion

In this chapter, we have examined the properties of aldehydes and ketones. Specifically, we have
taken a look at the reactivity of the carbonyl carbon in nucleophilic addition reactions and
examined how aldehydes and ketones can be oxidized and reduced. Carbonyls are common
reaction sites in many biosynthetic processes, which helps explain their importance on the MCAT.

In the following chapter, we will continue our exploration of aldehydes and ketones by looking the
chemistry of enolates, which are nucleophilic carbonyl-containing compounds.