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The reactions
This reaction only works well for
aldehydes. In the case of ketones, one
of the hydrocarbon groups attached to
the carbonyl group needs to be a
methyl group. Bulky groups attached to
the carbonyl group get in the way of
the reaction happening.
The aldehyde or ketone is shaken with
a saturated solution of sodium
hydrogensulphite in water. Where the
product is formed, it separates as white
crystals.

Note: In the case of methanal and

ethanal, the product is reasonably
soluble. If you start with
aqueous solutions of methanal or
ethanal, there may be enough water
present that the product doesn't actually
form crystals.