Question

In the Cannizzaro's reaction given below :
$2 Ph - CHO \xrightarrow{ KOH } Ph - CH _{2} OH + PhCO _{2}^{-}$
The slowest step is

• A. The attack of $-OH$ at the carbonyl group
• B. The transfer of hydride to the carbonyl group
• C. The abstraction of proton from the carboxylic acid
• D. The deprotonation of $Ph - CH _{2} OH$

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

The slowest step in Cannizzaro reaction is transfer of hydride to the carbonyl group.