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Question

Which of the following is most reactive towards HCN?


A

Acetone

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B

Formaldehyde

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C

Acetaldehyde

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D

Diethyl ketone

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Solution

The correct option is B

Formaldehyde


Explanation for correct option

(b) Formaldehyde

  • Formaldehyde (HCHO) has both side hydrogen.
  • It will be electropositive.
  • Steric hinderance will be very less as both side hydrogen is there.
  • So, the most reactive element would by most electrophilic in nature and less steric hinderance.
  • Hence, formaldehyde would be most reactive towards HCN.
  • Therefore, the correct option is (b) Formaldehyde.

Explanation for incorrect options

(a) Acetone

  • This ketone has both alkyl groups attached to it.
  • And alkyl groups are electron donating groups making it less electropositive.
  • And steric hinderance is more as heavy alkyl group is attached in comparison with formaldehyde.
  • So acetone is not most reactive element towards HCN.
  • Hence option (a) Acetone is incorrect.

(c) Acetaldehyde

  • Acetaldehyde (CH3CHO) has one side hydrogen and one side methyl group attached.
  • So, it has more steric hinderance than formaldehyde.
  • Therefore, less reactive than formaldehyde towards HCN.
  • Hence, option (c) Acetaldehyde is incorrect.

(d) Diethyl ketone

  • It has both sides ethyl group attached.
  • So, it a compound with large steric hinderance.
    • Therefore, less reactive than formaldehyde towards HCN.
  • Hence, option (d) Diethyl ketone is incorrect.

Hence the correct option is (b) Formaldehyde.


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