Question:

The correct statement about the synthesis of erythritol \(\mathrm{C(CH_2OH)_4}\) used in the preparation of PETN is :

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Pentaerythritol is made from acetaldehyde and excess formaldehyde: three aldol steps use the three alpha hydrogens, then a crossed Cannizzaro.
Updated On: Nov 11, 2026
  • The synthesis requires four aldol condensations between methanol and ethanol.
  • The synthesis requires two aldol condensations and two Cannizzaro reactions.
  • The synthesis requires three aldol condensations and one Cannizzaro reaction.
  • Alpha hydrogens of ethanol and methanol are involved in this reaction.
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

C(CH2OH)4 (pentaerythritol) is prepared from CH3CHO and 4 HCHO in presence of base.
CH3CHO has three alpha hydrogens, each undergoing aldol condensation with one HCHO: CH3CHO → HOCH2CH2CHO → (HOCH2)2CHCHO → (HOCH2)3CCHO (three aldol condensations).
The aldehyde (HOCH2)3CCHO has no alpha H; with the fourth HCHO it undergoes crossed Cannizzaro, being reduced to C(CH2OH)4 while HCHO is oxidised to formate (one Cannizzaro reaction).
Answer: (3) The synthesis requires three aldol condensations and one Cannizzaro reaction.
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