Question

Draw the structural formula of the principal organic product formed when ethyl benzoate is treated with LiAlH4, then H2O. You do not have to consider stereochemistry. You do not have to explicitly draw H atoms. Do not include lone pairs in your answer. Include counter-ions, e.g., Na+, I-, in your submission, but draw them in their own separate sketcher. Do not draw organic or inorganic by-products.

Answer 1

Answer:

Phenylmethanol

Explanation:

In this case, we will have a reduction reaction. We go from an ester group to an alcohol. As the first step, an hydride is transferred from the LiAlH4 to the carbonyl group. Then the ethyl group leaves to form ethanol and an aldehyde that continues reacting with more LiAlH4.  Another hydride is transferred to the carbonyl group in this case producing an alcohol. (See figure)