What intermediate occurs when a ketone undergoes a Wolff-Kishner reduction?
A) a cyanohydrin
B) a hydrated aldehyde
C) a carboxylate
D) a semicarbazone
E) a hydrazone

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

During the Wolff-Kishner reduction, a hydrazone intermediate is formed by the reaction of the ketone with hydrazine. This hydrazone intermediate is then treated with strong base and high heat to undergo a rearrangement and eliminate nitrogen gas, resulting in the formation of the corresponding alkane.

What Intermediate Occurs When a Ketone Undergoes a Wolff-Kishner Reduction