A researcher wants to synthesize ethanol using a Grignard reagent and a carbonyl compound. Which carbonyl compound must be chosen for this specific purpose?
Q1. A researcher wants to synthesize ethanol using a Grignard reagent and a carbonyl compound. Which carbonyl compound must be chosen for this specific purpose?
Answer: Formaldehyde
Explanation: Formaldehyde (HCHO) is the only aldehyde that produces a primary alcohol with Grignard reagents. Acetaldehyde is tempting but it produces a secondary alcohol.