Which of the following is the best reducing agent to convert $RCOOH$ into $RCH_2OH$?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → $B_2H_6$
To reduce a carboxylic acid (RCOOH) to a primary alcohol (RCH₂OH), a strong reducing agent is required.
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NaBH₄ → too mild; does not reduce carboxylic acids, reduces aldehydes and ketones only
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LiBH₄ → stronger than NaBH₄ but still not effective for RCOOH
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H₂ / Pd → does not reduce carboxylic acids to alcohols
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B₂H₆ → specifically and efficiently reduces RCOOH → RCH₂OH
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