Question

Which one of the following on treatment with 50% aqueous sodium hydroxide yields the corresponding alcohol and acid?

(a) C₆H₅CHO

(b) CH₃CH₂CH₂CHO

(d) C₆H₅CH₂CHO

Answer 1

The correct option is: (a) C₆H₅CHO

Explanation:

Aldehydes which do not have α-H atom, in presence of 50% NaOH or 50% KOH undergoes disproportionation reaction to produce alcohol and sodium salt of acid. This reaction is known as Cannizzaro reaction. C₆H₅CHO containing no α-H atom undergoes Cannizzaro reaction to produce benzyl alcohol and sodium benzoate.