Cannizzaro Reaction of Formaldehyde

2HCHO + NaOH → HCOONa + CH3OH

Ikhtisar

In the Cannizzaro reaction, two molecules of a non-enolizable aldehyde undergo disproportionation in the presence of strong base. One molecule is oxidized to a carboxylate salt while the other is reduced to an alcohol. Formaldehyde disproportionates to sodium formate and methanol.

Peserta

Peran Zat Koefisien Keadaan
Reaktan Sodium Hydroxide NaOH 1 (aq)
Reaktan Formaldehyde CH₂O 2 (aq)
Produk Methanol CH₃OH 1 (l)

Contoh Sehari-hari

The Cannizzaro reaction demonstrates that oxidation and reduction can occur simultaneously between identical molecules (disproportionation).

Pentingnya dalam Industri

The crossed Cannizzaro reaction of formaldehyde with other aldehydes produces polyols like pentaerythritol, used in alkyd resins and explosives (PETN).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Cannizzaro Reaction of Formaldehyde?
The balanced equation is: 2HCHO + NaOH → HCOONa + CH₃OH.
What type of reaction is Cannizzaro Reaction of Formaldehyde?
Cannizzaro Reaction of Formaldehyde is a organic reaction.
Is Cannizzaro Reaction of Formaldehyde exothermic or endothermic?
Cannizzaro Reaction of Formaldehyde is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -60.0 kJ/mol.