Question:

Which of the following reagents is used to convert -CN group to -\(\text{CH}_2\text{NH}_2\) group?

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Nitriles are reduced to primary amines by nascent hydrogen from sodium and ethanol or by catalytic hydrogenation.
Updated On: Oct 1, 2026
  • \(\text{CrO}_3\)
  • \(\text{Na}+\text{C}_2\text{H}_5\text{OH}\)
  • \(\text{H}_3\text{PO}_4\)
  • \(\text{Al}_2\text{O}_3\)
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Reducing a nitrile means adding hydrogen to the carbon-nitrogen triple bond until a primary amine forms. This is how many primary amines are made.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
\[ \text{R-C}\equiv\text{N} + 4[\text{H}] \xrightarrow{\text{Na/C}_2\text{H}_5\text{OH}} \text{R-CH}_2\text{NH}_2 \] This is called the Mendius reduction.

Step 3: Why the other options are wrong.
\(\text{CrO}_3\) is an oxidising agent. \(\text{H}_3\text{PO}_4\) is an acid with no reducing power. \(\text{Al}_2\text{O}_3\) is a dehydrating or catalyst material, not a source of hydrogen.

Final Answer:
Sodium with ethanol reduces -CN to -CH2NH2, option (B). \[ \boxed{\text{Na + C}_2\text{H}_5\text{OH}} \]
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