Stephen's reduction is a key named reaction in organic chemistry. Which of the following statements — Aldehydes Ketones and Carboxylic Acids Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

Stephen's reduction specifically reduces cyanides (nitriles) to aldehydes. It utilizes $SnCl_2/HCl$ to form an imine hydrochloride intermediate ($R-CH=NH \cdot HCl$), which is then boiled with water (hydrolyzed) to yield the aldehyde. It cannot be used to synthesize ketones.