Draw the condensed structural formula for the alcohol formed when each of the following is reduced by hydrogen in the presence of a nickel catalyst:


a. ethyl propyl ketone

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the functional group in ethyl propyl ketone, which is a ketone characterized by a carbonyl group (C=O) bonded to two alkyl groups.
2. Recognize that the reduction of a ketone involves the addition of hydrogen (H₂) across the carbonyl group, converting the C=O bond into a C-OH bond, forming an alcohol.
3. Determine the structure of ethyl propyl ketone: it has a three-carbon propyl group and a two-carbon ethyl group attached to the carbonyl carbon, making it a five-carbon chain with the carbonyl group on the third carbon.
4. Apply the reduction process: the carbonyl carbon (C=O) in ethyl propyl ketone will gain two hydrogen atoms, one to the oxygen and one to the carbon, resulting in a secondary alcohol.
5. Draw the condensed structural formula for the alcohol: replace the C=O group with a C-OH group at the appropriate position in the carbon chain, ensuring the rest of the carbon chain remains unchanged.

Key Concepts

Reduction Reaction

A reduction reaction involves the gain of electrons or hydrogen by a molecule, resulting in a decrease in oxidation state. In organic chemistry, this often refers to the conversion of carbonyl compounds, like ketones, into alcohols. The process typically requires a reducing agent, such as hydrogen gas, and a catalyst, like nickel, to facilitate the reaction.

Condensed Structural Formula

A condensed structural formula is a way of representing a chemical compound that shows the arrangement of atoms in a molecule without depicting all the bonds explicitly. It provides a simplified view of the molecular structure, indicating how atoms are grouped together. For example, in alcohols, the hydroxyl (-OH) group is highlighted, showing its connection to the carbon chain.

Nickel Catalyst

A nickel catalyst is a substance that accelerates the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process. In the context of hydrogenation reactions, nickel is commonly used to facilitate the addition of hydrogen to unsaturated compounds, such as ketones. Its role is crucial in ensuring that the reduction occurs efficiently, leading to the formation of the desired alcohol.