Reduction of an aldehyde produces

Options

A. Primary alcohol
B. Monocarboxylic acid
C. Secondary
D. Tertiary alcohol

Answer

To solve the question "Reduction of an aldehyde produces," we need to understand the chemical process involved in the reduction of aldehydes.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Aldehydes**: Aldehydes have the general formula RCHO, where R is a hydrocarbon chain and the carbonyl group (C=O) is at the end of the molecule.

2. **Reduction Process**: Reduction refers to the gain of electrons or the addition of hydrogen to a molecule. In the case of aldehydes, the carbonyl group (C=O) is reduced to a hydroxyl group (–OH).

3. **Using a Reducing Agent**: Common reducing agents for aldehydes include hydrogen gas (H2) in the presence of a catalyst (like nickel), lithium aluminum hydride (LiAlH4), or sodium borohydride (NaBH4). These agents provide the necessary hydrogen for the reduction process.

4. **Conversion to Alcohol**: When an aldehyde is reduced, the carbonyl carbon (C=O) is converted to a carbon with a hydroxyl group (–OH) and two hydrogen atoms. This transformation results in the formation of a primary alcohol.

- For example, if we take ethanal (acetaldehyde, CH3CHO) and reduce it, we get ethanol (CH3CH2OH), which is a primary alcohol.

5. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the reduction of an aldehyde produces a primary alcohol.

### Final Answer:
Reduction of an aldehyde produces a **primary alcohol**.

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