Identify the major product obtained in the following reaction: [figure]
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Answer
(2) [figure]
Solution
Tollens' reagent, [Ag(NH3)2]+ in alkaline medium, is a mild oxidising agent: it oxidises only the -CHO group to the carboxylate ion and does not attack the ketone group.
RCHO + 2[Ag(NH3)2]+ + 3 OH- RCOO- + 2Ag + 4NH3 + 2H2O
[figure]
The major product is 2-acetylbenzoate, option (2).
Answer: (2)