Tollens' Test for Aldehydes

Hazards

• The greatest hazard is formation of silver fulminate. To avoid formation of silver fulminate dispose of the Tollens' test immediately after performing the experiment.
• Silver nitrate stains fingers.
• Potassium hydroxide is caustic and toxic.
• Ammonia is caustic and has irritating vapors

Chemicals and Solutions

• Tollens' Solution A (dilute sugar/acid)
• Tollens' Solution B (potassium hydroxide, silver nitrate, ammonia)

Procedure

1. 500 ml test tube and rack.
2. Add 6 mL of Tollens' Solution A to the large test tube.
3. Pour in 400 mL of Tollens' Solution B. Within a minute the tube should darken and begin to form a silver mirror.