Answer: Methanol and formic acid (sodium formate).
- A Methanol and formic acid (sodium formate)
- B Ethanol and methanol from a crossed disproportionation
- C Acetic acid and methanol via an aldol-type rearrangement
- D Formaldehyde regenerated alongside CO<sub>2</sub> gas
Correct answer: A. Methanol and formic acid (sodium formate)
Explanation: Cannizzaro reaction of formaldehyde gives methanol (reduction) and sodium formate (oxidation).
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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