Chapter 14, Problem 14.54AP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Product that will be formed when the given aldopentose is treated with Benedict’s reagent has to be drawn.

Concept Introduction:

Monosaccharides that are aldoses contains an aldehyde group.  The carbonyl of the aldehyde undergoes oxidation very easily resulting in the formation of carboxyl group.  The product formed is known as aldonic acid.  Benedict’s reagent is ${\text{Cu}}^{\text{2+}}$.  The monosaccharides that contains aldehyde group are known as reducing sugars.  In the course of the reaction, Benedict’s reagent is reduced to ${\text{Cu}}^{\text{+}}$.  General reaction can be represented as follows.

    ${\text{Aldose + 2Cu}}^{\text{2+}}\to \text{Aldonic}{\text{acid + Cu}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}$