Question

Write short notes on the following: Cannizzaro's reaction

Hint:

Cannizzaro’s reaction occurs with aldehydes lacking \(\alpha\)-hydrogen atoms.

Answer 1

Step 1: Definition: Cannizzaro’s reaction is a redox reaction where non-enolizable aldehydes undergo disproportionation in a strong base. Step 2: Reaction: \[ 2 C_6H_5CHO + NaOH \rightarrow C_6H_5CH_2OH + C_6H_5COONa \] One aldehyde molecule is reduced to an alcohol, and the other is oxidized to a carboxylate.