An organic compound containing a carbonyl group (C=O) bonded to two carbon atoms, with general formula RCOR'. Ketones are polar, can form hydrogen bonds with water, and are good solvents. Acetone (propanone) is the simplest and most common ketone, widely used as a solvent.
Other Names / Synonyms: Alkanone, Carbonyl compound (internal)
Properties & Characteristics
Carbonyl group flanked by two carbon groups (not H). Less reactive than aldehydes (no α-H on C=O carbon for oxidation). Do NOT give positive Tollens or Fehling tests. Nucleophilic addition: CN⁻, NaBH₄ (→ secondary alcohol), Grignard reagent, NH₂OH (→ oxime). Condensation reactions: aldol condensation (with enolizable ketones). Acetone (propanone): simplest ketone, excellent polar aprotic solvent, bp 56°C, miscible with water. IR: C=O stretch at ≈ 1715 cm⁻¹.
Uses & Applications
Acetone: most important ketone — industrial solvent (paints, adhesives, nail polish remover), synthesis of methyl methacrylate, bisphenol A, pharmaceuticals. Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK): industrial solvent. Cyclohexanone: nylon precursor via cyclohexanol. Methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK): solvent for cellulose nitrate lacquers. Ketone bodies (acetoacetate, β-hydroxybutyrate, acetone) produced in diabetic ketoacidosis and ketogenic diets.
Safety Information
Acetone: highly flammable (flash point −20°C), LEL 2.5%. CNS depressant at high concentrations. May aggravate diabetic ketoacidosis. MEK: flammable, irritant, potential neurotoxin with n-hexane coexposure. Avoid all ketone solvent contact with open flames. Vapors heavier than air, accumulate at floor level. Regularly check vapor detectors in enclosed workspaces.
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
An organic compound containing a carbonyl group (C=O) bonded to two carbon atoms, with general formula RCOR'. Ketones are polar, can form hydrogen bonds with water, and are good solvents. Acetone (propanone) is the simplest and most common ketone, widely used as a solvent.
Acetone: most important ketone — industrial solvent (paints, adhesives, nail polish remover), synthesis of methyl methacrylate, bisphenol A, pharmaceuticals. Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK): industrial solvent. Cyclohexanone: nylon precursor via cyclohexanol. Methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK): solvent for cel…
Acetone: highly flammable (flash point −20°C), LEL 2.5%. CNS depressant at high concentrations. May aggravate diabetic ketoacidosis. MEK: flammable, irritant, potential neurotoxin with n-hexane coexposure. Avoid all ketone solvent contact with open flames. Vapors heavier than air, accumulate at floo…
The formula or notation for Ketone is: R₂C=O (ketone) | CH₃COCH₃ (acetone), CH₃COC₂H₅ (MEK)
Editorial standards: Chemical data is sourced from peer-reviewed literature,
CAS Registry, NIST WebBook, and PubChem. Safety information reflects guidance from OSHA, ECHA,
and IAEA. For educational purposes only — always consult official SDS documentation and qualified
professionals before handling chemicals.
