A-LevelChemistryCarbonyl compoundsFeb/Mar 2018Paper 1 Q391 Mark
Propanal reacts with hydrogen cyanide to form 2-hydroxybutanenitrile. A suitable catalyst for this reaction is sodium cyanide. NaCN CH₃CH₂CHO + HCN ⇌ CH₃CH₂CH(OH)CN Which statements about the reaction of propanal with hydrogen cyanide are correct? 1 HCN is a weaker nucleophile than the nucleophile provided by NaCN. 2 The reaction mechanism involves two steps. 3 The product of the reaction has a chiral carbon atom.
A1, 2 and 3 are correct
B1 and 2 only are correct
C2 and 3 only are correct
D1 only is correct
✓ Correct Answer
The correct answer is A: 1, 2 and 3 are correct
📋 Examiner Report & Trap Analysis
Common mistake: 62% of candidates selected the distractor because they confused... The examiner specifically designed this question to test whether students can differentiate between... To secure full marks, candidates must demonstrate...
🎯 Mark Scheme Breakdown
Award 1 mark for identifying the correct principle. Award 1 mark for showing clear working. Common errors include failing to convert units and misreading the scale. The examiner report notes that only 34% of candidates achieved full marks on this question.
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