Acetaldehyde reacts with HCN to form a cyanohydrin. It is an example of:
Correct answer: C. Nucleophilic addition
- A. Electrophilic addition
- B. Electrophilic substitution
- C. Nucleophilic addition
- D. Nucleophilic substitution
Explanation
"As CN is a nucleophile, it is added to acetaldehyde by donating electrons. When acetaldehyde reacts with HCN, it gives the nucleophilic addition product known as acetone cyanohydrin. The product has both affinity towards oxidation as well as reduction, depending on the reactants used."
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About Aldehydes and Ketones
Aldehydes and ketones contain the polar carbonyl group, but aldehydes are generally more readily oxidised and more reactive than ketones. Coverage includes preparation by oxidation or reduction routes, nucleophilic addition of reagents such as hydrogen cyanide and bisulfite, and tests that distinguish aldehydes from ketones.
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