Question

Identify the reaction that converts \(\text{CH}_{3}\text{CN}\) to \(\text{CH}_{3}\text{-CH}_{2}\text{-NH}_{2}\) .

• A. Mendius reduction
• B. Hofmann reduction
• C. Clemmensen reduction
• D. Rosenmund reduction

Hint:

Reduction of an alkyl cyanide to a primary amine with sodium and alcohol is Mendius reduction.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept
The change \(\text{CH}_{3}\text{CN}\rightarrow\text{CH}_{3}\text{CH}_{2}\text{NH}_{2}\) is reduction of a cyanide to a primary amine with one extra carbon unit retained in the chain.

Step 2: Name of the reaction
Reduction of an alkyl cyanide using sodium and ethanol (nascent hydrogen) gives a primary amine.
This is called Mendius reduction.

Step 3: Why the other options fail
Hofmann's reaction degrades an amide to an amine with one carbon fewer.
Clemmensen reduction acts on aldehydes and ketones.
Rosenmund reduction acts on acid chlorides.

Final Answer:
The conversion is called Mendius reduction. \[ \boxed{\text{(A) }\text{Mendius reduction}} \]