Question

An optically compound " X " having molecular formula C4H8O3 evolves CO2 with NaHCO3 . The compound " X " on treatment with LiAlH4 gives achiral compound , then " X " is ?

Answer 1

Alcohols are not an ideal solvent for LiAlH4, but the main issue is that there is no carboxylic center to where the hydride transfer from LiAlH4 can take place.

Answer 2

Hey dear,

● Answer -
2-hydroxymethyl propanoic acid

● Explaination -
X is 2-hydroxymethyl propanoic acid with molecular formula C4H8O3.

2-hydroxymethyl propanoic acid reacts with NaHCO3 to liberate CO2 gas.
HO-CH2-CH3(CH3)-COOH + NaHCO3 ---> HO-CH2-CH3(CH3)-COONa + H2O + CO2


2-hydroxymethyl propanoic acid is reduced by LiAlH4 to achiral compound.
HO-CH2-CH3(CH3)-COOH + 2[H] ---> HO-C H2-CH3(CH3)-CH(OH)2

Hope this helps you...