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Both aldehydes and ketones contain a carbon -oxygen double bond (>C=O). This unit is referred to as the carbonyl group .Aldehydes and ketones are collectively called Carbonyl Compounds .In aldehydes ,the carbonyl carbon is bonded to one hydrogen and one alkyl group .But Formaldehyde is an exception ,in which the carbonyl carbon is bonded to two hydrogen atoms.

In ketones,the carbonyl carbon is always bonded to two alkyl groups These alkyl groups may be same or different .