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Why is base added in HCN addition to carbonyls?
AIt protonates the carbonyl oxygen
BIt dries the reaction mixture
CIt makes cyanide, a better nucleophile
DIt oxidises the aldehyde first
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: C. It makes cyanide, a better nucleophile
Pure HCN reacts slowly, but base converts it to CN- which attacks the carbonyl carbon far more readily.
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