Question

(i) Name the reagent i.e., X used for the above reduction.

(ii) Why other reducing agents like H₂, in the presence of a catalyst are not used.

(iii) Write the IUPAC name of the product formed.

Answer 1

(i) Diisobutyl aluminium hydride (DIBAL – H) is used as a reducing agent.

X = H₂O

(ii) It selectively reduces alkyl cyanides to imines, which on hydrolysis gives aldehydes. The double bond in the nitrile is not reduced. The other reducing agents reduce the double bond also.

(iii) hex-4-enal is the IUPAC name of the product.