A Levels Chemistry (9701)•9701/12/M/J/21
Explanation
Cyanohydrin Formation Mechanism
Steps:
- Identify the product CH3CH(OH)CN as a cyanohydrin from acetaldehyde (CH3CHO) and HCN.
- Recall that cyanohydrin formation involves nucleophilic addition of CN⁻ to the carbonyl carbon.
- Determine the correct mechanism shows base-catalyzed addition: deprotonation of HCN to CN⁻, addition to C=O forming alkoxide, then protonation to alcohol.
- Eliminate mechanisms that violate this sequence or involve incorrect intermediates.
Not enough information: Choices A–D are not described, preventing specific analysis.
Final answer: Not enough information.
Topic: Carbonyl compounds
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