Question

Which of the following compounds is obtained when alkyl cyanides are reacted with sodium and ethanol?

• A. Primary amine
• B. Secodary amine
• C. Tertiary amine
• D. Amide

Hint:

Sodium and ethanol give nascent hydrogen, which reduces the cyanide group to a primary amine.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept
Sodium with ethanol produces nascent hydrogen, which is a reducing agent.

Step 2: Write the Reaction
\(\text{R-C}\equiv\text{N}+4[\text{H}]\xrightarrow{\text{Na/C}_{2}\text{H}_{5}\text{OH}}\text{R-CH}_{2}\text{NH}_{2}\).

Step 3: Compare the options
The product is a primary amine with one more carbon than the starting alkyl group. Option (A).

Final Answer:
The product is a primary amine. \[ \boxed{\text{(A) }\text{Primary amine}} \]