Chapter 18, Problem 18.19P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The carbonyl-containing reactant that could be used in the given reaction is to be determined.

Concept introduction:

In a Wolff-Kishner reduction, the carbonyl group of a ketone or aldehyde is converted to a methylene ($={\text{CH}}_{\text{2}}$) group by treating it with hydrazine, ${\text{H}}_{\text{2}}{\text{NNH}}_{\text{2}}$. This reaction is carried out under mildly acidic conditions followed by heating in the presence of a strong base like NaOH. The hybridization of the carbonyl carbon changes from ${\text{sp}}^2$ to ${\text{sp}}^3$.