In the Cannizzaro reaction `2 Ph+CHO overset(overset(Θ)OH) rarr Ph-CH_2 OH+PhCOO` the slowest step is : the attack of `-OH` at the carbonyl group, the transfer of hydride ion to the carboxylic acid, the abstraction of proton from the carboxylic acid, the deprotonation of the `Ph CH_2 OH`

Options

A. the attack of -OH at the carbonyl
group
B. the transfer of hydride ion to the carboxylic acid
C. the abstraction of proton from the
carboxylic acid
D. the deprotonation of the Ph_- CH_2 OH

Answer

B