Question:

In the following reaction
\(\text{Carbonyl compound} + \mathrm{MeOH} \;\overset{\mathrm{HCl}}{\rightleftharpoons}\; \text{acetal}\)
Rate of the reaction is the highest for :

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Aldehydes are more reactive than ketones towards nucleophilic addition, and a higher concentration of methanol increases the rate.
Updated On: Nov 5, 2026
  • Propanal as substrate and methanol in stoichiometric amount.
  • Acetone as substrate and methanol in stoichiometric amount
  • Propanal as substrate and methanol in excess
  • Acetone as substrate and methanol in excess
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Acetal formation proceeds by protonation of the carbonyl group followed by nucleophilic attack of MeOH on the carbonyl carbon.
Aldehydes (propanal) are more reactive than ketones (acetone): the carbonyl carbon of a ketone is more hindered and its positive charge is reduced by two electron-donating alkyl groups.
A larger concentration of MeOH (excess) increases the rate of the nucleophilic attack and also shifts the equilibrium towards the acetal.
Hence propanal with excess methanol gives the highest rate.
Answer: (3) Propanal as substrate and methanol in excess
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