Which reagent converts an alkyl nitrile (R-C#N) into a primary carboxylic acid (R-COOH) in a single synthetic step?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Aqueous acid (H3O+) with heat
- Step 1: Nitriles undergo nucleophilic addition of water under acidic or alkaline conditions. Step 2. Complete acid-catalyzed hydrolysis of the cyano group (-C#N) converts it into a carboxyl group (-COOH) and an ammonium salt (NH4+). Answer: Aqueous acid (H3O+) with heat. Why not the others: LiAlH4 and catalytic H2/Ni reduce nitriles to primary amines (R-CH2-NH2); NaBH4 does not reduce nitriles.
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