i) Describe the following, giving linked chemical equations: a) Cannizzaro reaction b) decarboxylation ii) Complete the three chemical equations shown in the figure (parts a, b, c).(ii)(a)(ii)(b)(ii)(c)
Answer: (i)(a) Disproportionation of no-α-H aldehyde in conc. alkali; (b) RCOONa + NaOH/CaO, Δ → RH. (ii) Per the printed lines.
Solution
(i)(a)
2C6H5CHOconc.KOHC6H5CH2OH+C6H5COOK
(the alkoxide-hydride transfer oxidises one molecule, reduces the other). (b)
CH3COONa+NaOHCaOΔCH4+Na2CO3
(ii) Complete each displayed equation by its standard pattern — the two printed members (substrate/reagent or reagent/product) fix the third.