Jones Reagent

The Jones Reagent is a powerful oxidizing agent widely utilized in organic chemistry for the selective oxidation of alcohols. It’s typically formulated as a solution of chromium trioxide (CrO3) dissolved in concentrated dilute sulfuric acid (H2SO4). The reaction proceeds efficiently due to the strong oxidizing power of the chromium(VI) species. The Jones Reagent primarily converts primary alcohols into carboxylic acids, and secondary alcohols are transformed into their corresponding ketones. The preparation of the reagent involves carefully dissolving CrO3 in a mixture of H2SO4 and water, frequently utilizing acetone as a solvent to ensure complete dissolution and maintain reaction control.