Which aldehyde is more reactive towards nucleophilic addition?
Which aldehyde is more reactive towards nucleophilic addition?
Explanation
The reactivity of aldehydes towards nucleophilic addition depends on the size of the alkyl group attached to the carbonyl carbon.
Formaldehyde (HCHO) has no alkyl groups attached to the carbonyl carbon, making it the most reactive
Because there is no steric hindrance, and the electron-donating effect is minimal.