Nikki_2003
Aug 9, 2003, 05:23 PM
Hi!
I REALLY REALLY need to know the mechanism for the Clemmensen Reduction of ketones/aldehydes using Zn(Hg) + HCl!?
How do the electrons transfer to reduce ketones/aldehydes to alkanes?
I have an exam soon!
Your help will be much appreciated!
QQapple
Sep 10, 2003, 08:47 AM
Well I can't draw chemical structures or arrows her but...
Seriousely!---DONT BE AFRAID TO ASK YOUR INSTRUCTOR!! Ask him/her BEFORE THE EXAM(i.e WHILE YOU STILL CAN!! ) and he/she should help
That would be the smart thing to do (his explanation would be the best exam-answer if 'HE' is marking the exam)
biiilll
Feb 18, 2010, 11:41 PM
The mechanism to this reaction is actually not fully known. Don't sweat it too much.
sahrish
May 26, 2010, 08:49 AM
yes I can try..
bt not able to draw structures properly as I have no chem draw like softwear, but I will try my best..!
At first step, protonation done on carbonyl oxygen R2_C=OH+,then react Zn throgh electrophilic carbon R2-C-OHZn+, Zn got +ve charge, then further react with 3 molar chloride ions3CL-, whch go attach on Zinc and Zn carry -2 charge,Chlorides remove as ZnCl2and Zn got -1 charge, then again protonation on OH, becomes OH2+, Zn -ve Charge move, and OH2+ removed, like R2-C=Zn, again protonation, doble bond C and Zn removed, and Zn carry +ve charge, like R2CH-Zn+, again protonation, Zn removed, and alkane compound formed at the end with removal of Zn+2... Like.. R-CH2-R, Zn+2...
hope my answer satisfy you..