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Which of the following is the most reactive towards hydrogen cyanide?(a) Acetophenone(b) Benzaldehyde(c) p-Nitrobenzaldehyde(d) p-TolualdehydeI had been asked this question during an interview for a job.Question is taken from Aldehydes and Ketones Chemical Reactions topic in chapter Aldehydes, Ketones and Carboxylic Acids of Chemistry – Class 12

Answer»

Correct CHOICE is (c) p-Nitrobenzaldehyde

To elaborate: Addition of hydrogen cyanide is a nucleophilic reaction. CH3 and COCH3 are electron releasing groups which decrease the positive charge on CARBONYL carbon, whereas NO2 is an electron withdrawing group which INCREASES the electrophilicity of carbonyl carbon, MAKING it more reactive toward hydrogen cyanide than benzaldehyde.



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