Question:medium

The Gattermann-Koch reaction is used in the industrial preparation of benzaldehyde. The electrophile involved in this reaction is

Updated On: Mar 27, 2026
  • HCO+

  • HCl + CO$_2$ + anhydrous AlCl$_3$
  • CO+

     

  • CO + anhydrous AlCl$_3$
Show Solution

The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Benzaldehyde is synthesized from benzene using the Gattermann-Koch reaction, an electrophilic aromatic substitution. This process requires generating an electrophile that then reacts with the benzene ring. To determine the correct electrophile, consider the following options:

  • HCO+
  • HCl + CO2 + anhydrous AlCl3
  • CO+
  • CO + anhydrous AlCl3

In the Gattermann-Koch reaction, the electrophile is produced when carbon monoxide (CO) interacts with hydrochloric acid (HCl) in the presence of a Lewis acid catalyst, typically anhydrous aluminum chloride (AlCl3). This interaction forms the formyl cation (HCO+), which subsequently functions as the electrophile, reacting with benzene to yield benzaldehyde.

Consequently, the specific electrophile participating in the Gattermann-Koch reaction is: HCO+.

Was this answer helpful?
4

Top Questions on carbonyl compounds