MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #348

A researcher needs to reduce a ketone that is stable in acid but sensitive to base. Which reagent combination should be used?

MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #348

  1. Question 1

    Q1. A researcher needs to reduce a ketone that is stable in acid but sensitive to base. Which reagent combination should be used?

    • A) Zinc amalgam and concentrated HCl
    • B) Hydrazine in the presence of KOH
    • C) Sodium borohydride in ethanol
    • D) Platinum catalyst with hydrogen gas

    Answer: Zinc amalgam and concentrated HCl

    Explanation: Clemmensen reduction uses Zn-Hg/HCl to reduce carbonyls to alkanes. Wolf-Kishner is the basic-medium equivalent, often confused by students in exam settings.