A complex organic molecule contains both a carboxylic acid () group and an ester () group. Which spe — Aldehydes Ketones and Carboxylic Acids Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

$NaBH_4$ is too weak to reduce acids. $LiAlH_4$ is a harsh agent that indiscriminately reduces both the acid and the ester. Diborane ($B_2H_6$) is a highly selective electrophilic agent that cleanly reduces $-COOH$ without touching esters.