Question

How will you obtain a primary amine from an alkyl cyanide (nitrile)?

OR

Write a short note on Mendius reduction.

Answer 1

Alkyl cyanides (nitriles) on reduction by sodium and ethyl alcohol form corresponding primary amines. This reaction is called Mendius reduction.

For example ; 

Propionitrile on reduction by sodium and ethanol gives n-propyl amine (Propan-1-amine).

Methyl cyanide or acetonitrile on reduction by sodium and ethanol gives ethanaminc.