question_answer

The reaction of benzaldehyde with alkali gives

A)  phenol + sodium benzoate

B)  benzene + benzyl alcohol

C)  benzyl alcohol + sodium benzoate

D)  phenol + benzene

Correct Answer: C

Solution :

Aldehydes which do not contain an \[\alpha \]-hydrogen atom, treated with concentrated alkali solution to give alcohol and salt of carboxylic acid is called Cannizaro reaction. Example - Benzaldehyde reacts with alkali  \[(NaOH)\] to give benzyl alcohol and sodium benzoate.