Alkyl cyanides undergo Stephen redyction to produce

Options

A. Aldehyde
B. Secondary amine
C. Primary amine
D. Amide

Answer

To solve the question regarding the product of alkyl cyanides undergoing Stephen reduction, we can break down the process step by step.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Alkyl Cyanides**: Alkyl cyanides have the general structure R-C≡N, where R is an alkyl group.

2. **Stephen Reduction**: This reduction involves the treatment of alkyl cyanides with stannous chloride (SnCl2) in the presence of hydrochloric acid (HCl).

3. **Reaction Conditions**: The reaction is typically carried out at room temperature. The alkyl cyanide is dissolved in an ether solvent and then treated with SnCl2 and HCl.

4. **Formation of Imine**: During the reduction, the alkyl cyanide (R-C≡N) is converted to an imine (R-CH=NH). This is an intermediate step in the process.

5. **Hydrolysis of Imine**: The imine formed (R-CH=NH) can then undergo hydrolysis when treated with boiling water. This hydrolysis converts the imine into an aldehyde (R-CHO).

6. **Final Product**: Therefore, the final product of the Stephen reduction of alkyl cyanides is an aldehyde.

### Conclusion:
The correct answer to the question is that alkyl cyanides undergo Stephen reduction to produce **aldehyde**.