Textbook Question
Draw the condensed structural formula for the alcohol formed when each of the following is reduced by hydrogen in the presence of a nickel catalyst:
d. 2-methyl-3-pentanone
680
views
15. Aldehydes and Ketones
Reduction of Aldehydes and Ketones
Problem 54b
Textbook Question
Draw the condensed structural or line-angle formula for the alcohol produced when hydrogen and a nickel catalyst reduce each of the following:
b. 
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the functional group in the given compound. In this case, the compound likely contains a carbonyl group (C=O), as alcohols are typically produced by the reduction of aldehydes or ketones.
Understand the reduction process. When a carbonyl group is reduced using hydrogen (H₂) and a nickel catalyst, the double bond between carbon and oxygen is broken, and two hydrogen atoms are added. This converts the carbonyl group into a hydroxyl group (-OH), forming an alcohol.
Determine the type of alcohol produced. If the carbonyl group is part of an aldehyde, the reduction will produce a primary alcohol. If the carbonyl group is part of a ketone, the reduction will produce a secondary alcohol.
Draw the condensed structural formula or line-angle formula for the alcohol. Replace the carbonyl group in the original structure with a hydroxyl group (-OH) and ensure the correct number of hydrogens are added to maintain the valency of carbon.
Verify the structure. Check that the resulting alcohol structure is consistent with the original compound and the reduction process, ensuring all bonds and atoms are correctly represented.
Verified video answer for a similar problem:This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above
Was this helpful?
Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Reduction Reaction
A reduction reaction involves the gain of electrons or hydrogen by a molecule, resulting in a decrease in oxidation state. In organic chemistry, this often refers to the conversion of carbonyl compounds (like aldehydes or ketones) into alcohols. The process typically requires a reducing agent, such as hydrogen gas in the presence of a catalyst like nickel, to facilitate the reaction.
Recommended video:
Guided course
2:38
Reduction Reactions Concept 1
Nickel Catalyst
A nickel catalyst is a substance that accelerates the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process. In hydrogenation reactions, nickel serves as a catalyst to facilitate the addition of hydrogen to unsaturated organic compounds, effectively converting them into saturated compounds, such as alcohols from carbonyls. Its effectiveness is due to its ability to adsorb hydrogen and the organic substrate, allowing for easier interaction.
Recommended video:
Guided course
1:57Reduction of Aldehydes and Ketones Concept 2
Condensed Structural Formula
A condensed structural formula is a way of representing a chemical structure that shows the arrangement of atoms in a molecule without depicting all the bonds explicitly. It provides a simplified view of the molecule, often grouping atoms together to indicate how they are connected. This format is particularly useful for illustrating organic compounds, such as alcohols, where functional groups play a significant role in the molecule's properties.
Recommended video:
Guided course
1:53Condensed Formula Concept 1
2:38mWatch next
Master Reduction Reactions Concept 1 with a bite sized video explanation from Jules
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice