Question

Identify A in the following reaction:

• A. 1
• B. 2
• C. 3
• D. 4

Hint:

$NaBH_4$: - Reduces aldehydes & ketones - Does NOT reduce esters (use $LiAlH_4$ for that)

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Concept: $NaBH_4$ is a mild reducing agent that:
• Reduces aldehydes and ketones to alcohols
• Does not reduce esters under normal conditions

Step 1: Identify functional groups.
The given compound contains:
• One ketone group ($-CO-$)
• One ester group ($-COOCH_3$)

Step 2: Apply action of $NaBH_4$.

• Ketone $\rightarrow$ Secondary alcohol
• Ester $\rightarrow$ No reaction

Step 3: Write product.
\[ CH_3-CO-CH_2-COOCH_3 \rightarrow CH_3-CH(OH)-CH_2-COOCH_3 \]

Step 4: Final conclusion.
Thus, the correct product is: \[ CH_3-CH(OH)-CH_2-COOCH_3 \]