Question

Which of the following pair of reagents is used for the conversion of carboxylic acid to alcohol ?

• A. \(\text{LiAlH}_4/\text{H}_3\text{O}^+\)
• B. \(\text{H}_2/\text{Ni - heat}\)
• C. \(\text{B}_2\text{H}_6/\text{H}_2\text{O}_2,\text{OH}^-\)
• D. \(\text{H}_2/\text{Pd}\)

Hint:

Lithium aluminium hydride followed by acidic work-up reduces RCOOH to a primary alcohol.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Recall:
Acid to primary alcohol: LiAlH$_4$ then $\text{H}_3\text{O}^+$. This is the reagent given in the NCERT chapter on carboxylic acids.

Step 2: Why Not Hydrogenation:
Carboxylic acids resist catalytic hydrogenation with Ni or Pd under normal conditions, so (B) and (D) fail.

Step 3: Answer:
Option (A).

Final Answer:
Option (A). \[ \boxed{\text{(A) } \text{LiAlH}_4/\text{H}_3\text{O}^+} \]