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🧪 Chemistry  ·  Aldehydes, Ketones and Carboxylic Acids  ·  NEET & JEE

Which of these undergoes intramolecular Cannizzaro reaction?

Answer: Glyoxal (OHCCHO).

  • A Glyoxal (OHCCHO)
  • B Benzaldehyde
  • C Acetone
  • D Formaldehyde

Correct answer: A. Glyoxal (OHCCHO)

Explanation: Glyoxal undergoes intramolecular Cannizzaro reaction to give glycolic acid.

Nucleophilic Addition to C=ONu:-CORR'CO-RR'Nu

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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