Question

Explain Clemensen reduction.

Answer 1

Clemmensen reduction is a reaction which involves the reduction of a carbonyl compound to form a simple hydrocarbon. Easiest way to remember this reduction is to simply imagine the removal of the C=O group by treating the compound with amalgamated zinc and concentrated HCl.

The Clemmensen reduction is carried out under acidic conditions and therefore it is suitable method for reducing aldehyde and ketones which are unstable to basic conditions. It is most commonly used to convert acylbenzene to alkylbenzene the process consists of refluxing the carbonyl compound with hydrochloric acid (HCl)containing amalgamated zinc.