Describe the following: (i) Acetylati | Class 12 Chemistry Chapter Aldehydes Ketones and Carboxylic Acids, Aldehydes Ketones and Carboxylic Acids NCERT Solutions

Current NCERT chapter

Academic session 2026-27, Chapter 8 in the current curriculum.

Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Chemistry - Chapter Aldehydes Ketones and Carboxylic Acids. This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Exercise 2, Question 16:

Describe the following:

(i) Acetylation

(ii) Cannizzaro reaction

(iii) Cross aldol condensation

(iv) Decarboxylation

. With detailed answers and explanations for each chapter, students can strengthen their understanding and prepare confidently for exams. Ideal for CBSE and other board students, this resource will simplify your study experience.

Question 16:

Describe the following:

(i) Acetylation

(ii) Cannizzaro reaction

(iii) Cross aldol condensation

(iv) Decarboxylation

Answer:

(i) Acetylation

The introduction of an acetyl functional group into an organic compound is known as acetylation. It is usually carried out in the presence of a base such as pyridine, dimethylaniline, etc. This process involves the substitution of an acetyl group for an active hydrogen atom. Acetyl chloride and acetic anhydride are commonly used as acetylating agents.

For example, acetylation of ethanol produces ethyl acetate.

 

(ii) Cannizzaro reaction:

The self- oxidation reduction (disproportionation) reaction of aldehydes having no α-hydrogens on treatment with concentrated alkalis is known as the Cannizzaro reaction. In this reaction, two molecules of aldehydes participate where one is reduced to alcohol and the other is oxidized to carboxylic acid.

For example, when ethanol is treated with concentrated potassium hydroxide, ethanol and potassium ethanoate are produced.

 

(iii) Cross-aldol condensation:

When aldol condensation is carried out between two different aldehydes, or two different ketones, or an aldehyde and a ketone, then the reaction is called a cross-aldol condensation. If both the reactants contain α-hydrogens, four compounds are obtained as products.

For example, ethanal and propanal react to give four products.

(iv) Decarboxylation:

Decarboxylation refers to the reaction in which carboxylic acids lose carbon dioxide to form hydrocarbons when their sodium salts are heated with soda-lime.

Decarboxylation also takes place when aqueous solutions of alkali metal salts of carboxylic acids are electrolyzed. This electrolytic process is known as Kolbe's electrolysis.


Study Tips for Answering NCERT Questions:

NCERT questions are designed to test your understanding of the concepts and theories discussed in the chapter. Here are some tips to help you answer NCERT questions effectively:

  • Read the question carefully and focus on the core concept being asked.
  • Reference examples and data from the chapter when answering questions about Aldehydes Ketones and Carboxylic Acids.
  • Review previous year question papers to get an idea of how such questions may be framed in exams.
  • Practice answering questions within the time limit to improve your speed and accuracy.
  • Discuss your answers with your teachers or peers to get feedback and improve your understanding.

Latest Blog Posts

Stay updated with our latest educational content and study tips

Home Loan vs Savings: Compare the Costs Before Buying a Home

Pay upfront, or pay off less and over time? The truth depends on four factors most consumers will never compare at the same time: the interest rate on the house loan, the interest rate on the savings account, the rate of home price appreciation, and the cost of renting the home until you actually buy … Read more

Read More

Business After 30 or a Stable Job: Which Path Should You Choose?

Thirty is when the question starts to get raised and you’re able to do something because you know you have the experience—you know you have the responsibility. Here are some ways to consider the choice based on a realistic assessment without idealizing either aspect. Restlessness is one of those things that appears in your early … Read more

Read More

How to Return to Work After a Career Break: Skills, Jobs and Preparation in 2026

It’s not about starting over if you took a break to care for children, take care of yourself, be healthy or for any other reason. This is a realistic strategy for the recovery of skills, selection of the right job, and overcoming the resume problem. One year, three years or 10 years of a career … Read more

Read More

Best Career Options After Class 12 for Average Students in 2026

There’s no need to score 95% or achieve a JEE/NEET rank. You don’t need to score 95% or rank in JEE/NEET to build a solid career. A candid and pragmatic guide to the routes that actually work for students who have an average mark and what to do when faced with the options. ​ If … Read more

Read More

Related Student Tools

Comments

  • Prajjwal
  • Feb 15, 2017

Cannizzaro reaction example is incorrect.


Add Comment

Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Chemistry - Chapter . This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Excercise 2 , Question 16: Describe the following: (i) Acetylation (ii) Cannizzaro reaction (iii) Cross aldol condensa....

Ask a Question
Keep learning

Discover More on SaralStudy

Explore all articles