(a) Write the product(s) of the three reactions shown in the figure. (b) Give simple chemical tests to distinguish between the following pairs of compounds: i) butanal and butan-2-one ii) benzoic acid and phenol(a)(i)(a)(ii)(a)(iii)
Solution
(a) For each displayed line apply its printed reagent: hydride → alcohol; named oxidant → acid/ketone; condensation partner → the imine-type product — write the three products off the figure. (b)(i) Butanal reduces Tollens' reagent (silver mirror); butan-2-one does not. (Butan-2-one is instead iodoform-positive.) (ii) Benzoic acid gives CO2 effervescence with NaHCO3; phenol gives none (and turns neutral FeCl3 violet).