Which statement is FALSE regarding carbonyl groups?
A) The carbon atom in a carbonyl group is more oxidized than the carbon atom in carbon dioxide.
B) The carbon atom of a carbonyl group is an electrophile.
C) Electron delocalization by a carbonyl group stabilizes an adjoining carbanion, thus facilitating its formation.
D) Positively charged metal ions may enhance the ability of a carbonyl group to act as an electron sink.
E) The functional group of aldehydes and ketones is a carbonyl group.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The statement that the carbon atom in a carbonyl group is more oxidized than the carbon atom in carbon dioxide is false. In fact, the carbon atom in carbon dioxide is more oxidized because it has a formal oxidation state of +4, while the carbon atom in a carbonyl group has a formal oxidation state of +2.

Which Statement Is FALSE Regarding Carbonyl Groups