Question:

The most suitable reagent for the given conversion is :

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Diborane reduces a carboxylic acid selectively in the presence of ketone, amide and nitrile groups.
Updated On: Nov 5, 2026
  • \(\mathrm{LiAlH_4}\)
  • \(\mathrm{B_2H_6}\)
  • \(\mathrm{NaBH_4}\)
  • \(\mathrm{H_2/Pd}\)
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

The starting material carries -CO2H, -CONH2, -CN and -COCH3; only the -COOH is converted to -CH2OH, while -CONH2, -CN and -COCH3 remain unchanged.
LiAlH4 reduces all these groups (ketone to alcohol, amide and nitrile to amines); NaBH4 does not reduce -COOH (it would reduce the ketone); H2/Pd reduces -CN and the ketone but not -COOH.
B2H6 (diborane) reduces carboxylic acids faster than other groups and leaves amide, nitrile and ketone (under controlled conditions) intact - the chemoselective reagent for acid to primary alcohol.
Answer: (2) B2H6
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