Question

The reducing agent \(X\) suitable for the following reduction reaction is:

• A. \( \text{LiAlH}_4 \)
• B. \( \text{B}_2\text{H}_6 \)
• C. \( \text{NaBH}_4 \)
• D. \( \text{CaO} \)

Hint:

Sodium borohydride (\( \text{NaBH}_4 \)) is a selective and milder reducing agent suitable for the reduction of nitro groups to amines.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

In this reduction reaction, the nitro group (\( \text{NO}_2 \)) needs to be reduced to an amine group (\( \text{NH}_2 \)) or similar. Sodium borohydride (\( \text{NaBH}_4 \)) is a common reducing agent used for reducing nitro groups to amines or hydroxyl groups.
- \( \text{NaBH}_4 \) is a mild and selective reducing agent that can reduce nitro groups to amines without affecting other functional groups like alcohols.
- Lithium aluminium hydride (\( \text{LiAlH}_4 \)) is a stronger reducing agent but is generally used for reducing esters, aldehydes, and ketones.
- \( \text{B}_2\text{H}_6 \) (diborane) is typically used for the reduction of unsaturated compounds.
- Calcium oxide (\( \text{CaO} \)) is not a reducing agent in this context.
Thus, the suitable reducing agent is \( \text{NaBH}_4 \).