The Cannizzaro reaction involves the disproportionation of Benzaldehyde. Which step in the mechanism is considered the slowest, rate-determining step?
Q1. The Cannizzaro reaction involves the disproportionation of Benzaldehyde. Which step in the mechanism is considered the slowest, rate-determining step?
Answer: Transfer of hydride ion to the second molecule
Explanation: The rate-determining step in Cannizzaro is the transfer of a hydride ion. Nucleophilic attack is common but occurs faster than the hydride shift.