Question

The product of the following reaction is: \[ C_2H_5 - \overset{O}{\overset{||}{C}} - CH_3 \quad \xrightarrow{H_2/Ni, \ \Delta} \quad ? \]

• A. \( CH_3 - CH_2 - CH_2 - CH_2 - OH \)
• B. \( CH_3 - CHOH - CH_2 - CH_3 \)
• C. \( CH_3 - CH_2 - CH_2 - CH_3 \)
• D. \( CH_3 - CH_2 - CH_2 - COOH \)

Hint:

Reduction of ketones with \( H_2/Ni \) forms a secondary alcohol by converting the carbonyl group to a hydroxyl group.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The given compound is butanone \(( C_2H_5 - \overset{O}{\overset{||}{C}} - CH_3 )\). When treated with hydrogen \(\left( H_2 \right)\) in the presence of a nickel \(\left( Ni \right)\) catalyst and heat \(\left( \Delta \right)\), the reaction involves the reduction of the carbonyl group \(\left( C=O \right)\) into a hydroxyl group, resulting in the formation of a secondary alcohol. The reaction proceeds as follows: \[ CH_3 - \overset{O}{\overset{||}{C}} - CH_2 - CH_3 \quad \xrightarrow{H_2/Ni, \ \Delta} \quad CH_3 - CH(OH) - CH_2 - CH_3 \] Thus, the correct product is a secondary alcohol, which is \( CH_3 - CH(OH) - CH_2 - CH_3 \). 
The correct answer is (B).