Iodoform Test

Formula / Core Reaction:

$$\text{CH}_3\text{CH(OH)R} \quad \text{or} \quad \text{CH}_3\text{C(=O)R} + 3\text{I}_2 + 4\text{NaOH} \rightarrow \text{CHI}_3 \downarrow + \text{RCOONa} + 3\text{NaI} + 3\text{H}_2\text{O}$$

Concept: Compounds containing a methyl ketone group ($$\text{CH}_3\text{C=O}$$) or a methyl secondary alcohol ($$\text{CH}_3\text{CH-OH}$$) undergo haloform reaction when heated with iodine and base to form triiodomethane.

Notation / Key Observation:

• $$\text{CHI}_3$$: Triiodomethane / Iodoform (Bright yellow crystalline precipitate with a characteristic antiseptic smell).