Answer: Acetone cyanohydrin.
- A Acetone cyanohydrin
- B Acetaldehyde
- C Acetonitrile
- D Propanol
Correct answer: A. Acetone cyanohydrin
Explanation: HCN adds across the C=O bond of acetone to give 2-hydroxy-2-methylpropanenitrile (acetone cyanohydrin).
Curved arrows show the nucleophile attacking the carbonyl carbon while the C=O pi electrons move onto oxygen, giving a tetrahedral alkoxide intermediate.
Concept context
Aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids, and their derivatives (esters, amides, acid chlorides). Key reactions include nucleophilic addition, Aldol condensation, Cannizzaro, and Claisen. Very heavily tested in JEE and NEET.
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