Question

An organic compound [X] with molecular formula C2H4O forms compound [Y] on oxidation. Compound [X] undergoes haloform reaction. On treatment with HCN, compound [X] forms a product [Z] which on hydrolysis gives 2-hydroxy propanoic acid.

1. Write down the structures of compounds [X] and [Y].
2. Name the product formed when [X] reacts with dil. NaOH.

Answer 1

(a) Compound [X] is Acetaldehyde (Ethanal).

Structure: CH₃CHO

Compound [Y] is Acetic Acid (Ethanoic Acid).

Structure: CH₃COOH

(b) When acetaldehyde [X] reacts with dilute NaOH, it undergoes an Aldol Condensation reaction, forming 3-hydroxybutanal (or β-hydroxybutyraldehyde).

\[\ce{\underset{Acetaldehyde}{2CH3CHO} ->[dil{.} NaOH][]\underset{3-hydroxybutanal}{CH3 – CH(OH) – CH2 – CHO}}\]