Question

Aldol is

• A. \(\beta\)-hydroxybutyraldehyde
• B. \(\alpha\)-hydroxybutanal
• C. \(\beta\)-hydroxypropanal
• D. None of the above

Hint:

Aldol from acetaldehyde is \(CH_3CH(OH)CH_2CHO\), i.e., \(\beta\)-hydroxy aldehyde.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Meaning of aldol.
Aldol is the product of aldol condensation of acetaldehyde.
Step 2: Aldol from acetaldehyde.
Two molecules of acetaldehyde combine to form:
\[ CH_3CH(OH)CH_2CHO \] This is 3-hydroxybutanal.
Step 3: Classification.
In this compound, \(-OH\) is on \(\beta\)-carbon with respect to aldehyde group.
Hence it is \(\beta\)-hydroxybutyraldehyde.
Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\beta\text{-hydroxybutyraldehyde}} \]