Question

Which of the following compounds is obtained when an acetic acid is treated with reagent \(\text{LiAlH}_{4}\)?

• A. Acetaldehyde
• B. Methane
• C. Ethyl alcohol
• D. Methyl alcohol

Hint:

Lithium aluminium hydride reduces a carboxylic acid completely to a primary alcohol.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Carbon Count
The reduction does not change the number of carbons, so the product must have two carbons. Methane and methyl alcohol are out.

Step 2: Reduction Level
The strong reagent does not stop at acetaldehyde, since the aldehyde is reduced further.

Step 3: Conclusion
The product is ethyl alcohol, option (C).

Final Answer:
The reduction gives ethanol. \[ \boxed{\text{(C) }\text{Ethyl alcohol}} \]