Question

Choose the correct option regarding the comparison of reactivity of benzaldehyde and propanal.

• A. Less reactive in electrophilic addition reactions than propanal
• B. More reactive in nucleophilic addition reactions than propanal
• C. Less reactive in nucleophilic addition reactions than propanal
• D. Equally reactive in nucleophilic addition reactions than propanal

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

The $C$-atom of the carbonyl group of benzaldehyde is less electrophilic than $C$-atom of the carbonyl group present in propanal due to resonance. Hence, it is less reactive than propanal towards nucleophilic addition reaction.