Question

Write chemical reactions involved in Cannizzaro Reaction of Methanal

Hint:

The Cannizzaro reaction uniquely facilitates the conversion of aldehydes lacking (alpha)-hydrogen into both an oxidized and a reduced product, exemplifying a key organic redox mechanism.

Answer 1

The Cannizzaro reaction is a classic redox process where non-enolizable aldehydes, which lack an \(\alpha\)-hydrogen, are treated with a strong base (\(\text{NaOH}\)) to undergo disproportionation. This reaction results in the simultaneous formation of an alcohol and a carboxylate salt. 
Consider the reaction with methanal (formaldehyde): \[ 2\text{HCHO} + \text{NaOH} \rightarrow \text{HCOO}^- \text{Na}^+ + \text{CH}_3\text{OH} \]