Textbook Question
Use oxidation numbers to determine whether the following are redox reactions.
(a)
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13. Alcohols and Carbonyl Compounds
Oxidizing and Reducing Agents
2:53 minutesProblem 58d
Textbook Question
Draw the products of the following reactions. Indicate whether each reaction is an oxidation or a reduction.
d. 
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Identify the functional group in the reactant. The given compound contains an aldehyde group (-CHO) attached to a cyclohexane ring.
Step 2: Recognize the reagents used in the reaction. The reaction involves hydrogen gas (H₂) and Raney nickel, which is a catalyst commonly used for hydrogenation reactions.
Step 3: Understand the reaction mechanism. Hydrogenation typically reduces the aldehyde group to a primary alcohol by adding hydrogen atoms to the carbonyl group.
Step 4: Determine the type of reaction. Since the aldehyde is being reduced to an alcohol, this reaction is classified as a reduction reaction.
Step 5: Draw the product. Replace the aldehyde group (-CHO) with a primary alcohol group (-CH₂OH) while keeping the cyclohexane ring intact.
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Video duration:
2mKey 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 groups (C=O) to alcohols (C-OH) through the addition of hydrogen. The reaction shown in the question is a classic example of reduction, where a carbonyl compound is transformed into an alcohol.
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Catalysts in Organic Reactions
Catalysts are substances that increase the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process. In the context of the given reaction, Raney nickel (Raney Ni) serves as a catalyst for hydrogenation, facilitating the addition of hydrogen to the carbonyl compound. Understanding the role of catalysts is crucial for predicting reaction pathways and product formation in organic chemistry.
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Oxidation-Reduction (Redox) Reactions
Oxidation-reduction (redox) reactions involve the transfer of electrons between two species, where one is oxidized (loses electrons) and the other is reduced (gains electrons). Identifying whether a reaction is an oxidation or reduction is essential for understanding the changes in oxidation states of the reactants. In the provided reaction, the carbonyl compound is reduced, indicating a gain of hydrogen and a decrease in oxidation state.
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