Step 1: Concept
Tollens' reagent is a test for the presence of aldehydes. It consists of a basic solution of silver nitrate, which forms a complex with the aldehyde to produce a silver mirror on the surface of the container.
Step 2: Meaning
A silver mirror indicates that an aldehyde has been oxidized by Tollens' reagent to form a precipitate of silver metal.
Step 3: Analysis
When an aldehyde reacts with Tollens' reagent, it undergoes oxidation. The aldehyde group (-CHO) is oxidized to form a carboxylic acid (-COOH). Simultaneously, the silver ions (Ag⁺) in the reagent are reduced to metallic silver (Ag).
The reaction can be represented as follows:
\[\text{R-CH}_2\text{-OH} + 2\text{Ag(NH}_3\text{)}_2^+ + 2\text{OH}^- \rightarrow \text{R-CHO} + 2\text{Ag(s)} + \text{NH}_4^+ + 3\text{H}_2\text{O}\]
The reduction of silver ions to metallic silver results in the deposition of a shiny silver mirror on the surface where the reaction occurs. This is because the silver metal forms a thin layer, often visible as a silvery-white or grayish deposit.
Step 4: Conclusion
Therefore, when an aldehyde reacts with Tollens' reagent, it produces a silver mirror due to the reduction of silver ions and the deposition of metallic silver.
Final Answer: (A)