Q. The most reactive compound towards formation of cyanohydrin on treatment with $HCN$ followed by acidification is

A) Benzaldehyde
B) p-nitrobenzaldehyde
C) Phenylacetaldehyde
D) p-hydroxybenzaldehyde
Explanation

(b)
Addition of $HCN\$to a carbonyl compound is a nucleophilic addition reaction. $- NO_{2}$ group being electron withdrawing increases the polarity (or electron deficiency) of carbonyl carbon and thus, makes the C=O group of benzaldehyde more reactive towards $HCN$.

Dr. Abubacker
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker

Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist

Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.

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