What is a major difference between acid and base catalyzed hydration of a carbonyl?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The major difference between acid and base catalyzed hydration of a carbonyl is the initial step of the mechanism. In acid-catalyzed hydration, the carbonyl group is protonated by an acid, which makes it more electrophilic and susceptible to attack by water. In base-catalyzed hydration, water is deprotonated by a base, creating a hydroxide ion that can attack the carbonyl carbon. Therefore, choice A is correct, as it correctly describes the first step in the mechanism for both acid and base-catalyzed hydration reactions.

What Is a Major Difference Between Acid and Base Catalyzed