Question:

The most appropriate reagent for conversion of \(\mathrm{C_2H_5CN}\) into \(\mathrm{CH_3CH_2CH_2NH_2}\) is

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A nitrile \(\mathrm{R{-}C{\equiv}N}\) must be reduced fully to a primary amine \(\mathrm{R{-}CH_2NH_2}\); only a strong hydride donor does this.
Updated On: Nov 5, 2026
  • \(\mathrm{NaBH_4}\)
  • \(\mathrm{CaH_2}\)
  • \(\mathrm{Na(CN)BH_3}\)
  • \(\mathrm{LiAlH_4}\)
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

\(\mathrm{C_2H_5CN} \rightarrow \mathrm{CH_3CH_2CH_2NH_2}\) is a reduction of the \(\mathrm{C{\equiv}N}\) group to \(\mathrm{CH_2{-}NH_2}\).
\(\mathrm{NaBH_4}\) is too mild to reduce a nitrile; \(\mathrm{CaH_2}\) is only a drying agent/base; \(\mathrm{Na(CN)BH_3}\) (sodium cyanoborohydride) is even milder (reduces imines, not nitriles).
\(\mathrm{LiAlH_4}\) is a strong reducing agent and reduces nitriles to primary amines: \(\mathrm{CH_3CH_2CN} + 4[\mathrm{H}] \rightarrow \mathrm{CH_3CH_2CH_2NH_2}\).
Answer: (4) \(\mathrm{LiAlH_4}\)
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