f a compound is reduced, what is the result?
Fewer C-H bonds
Increased number of C-H bonds
Fewer C-Z bonds
Both increased number of C-H bonds and fewer C-Z bonds
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer:
✅ Both increased number of C-H bonds and fewer C-Z bonds
Explanation:
In organic chemistry, reduction refers to a process in which a molecule gains electrons or hydrogen atoms, or loses electronegative atoms such as oxygen or halogens. A helpful way to remember reduction in terms of molecular structure is that a compound is reduced when it gains hydrogen or loses bonds to more electronegative atoms.
Here’s a breakdown of the bond changes during reduction:
- Increased C–H Bonds:
In reduction, hydrogen atoms are often added to the molecule. These hydrogens typically bond with carbon atoms, resulting in an increase in carbon-hydrogen (C–H) bonds. For example, the reduction of a carbonyl group (C=O) to an alcohol (C–OH) increases the number of C–H bonds when the alcohol is further reduced to an alkane (C–H). - Fewer C–Z Bonds (where Z is an electronegative atom like O, N, or a halogen):
Reduction usually involves the removal or replacement of electronegative atoms or groups bonded to carbon. As a result, C–Z bonds decrease during reduction. For instance, converting a carboxylic acid (R–COOH) to an alcohol (R–CH₂OH) reduces the number of C–O bonds.
Therefore, when a compound undergoes reduction, the general trend is:
- Gaining more C–H bonds
- Losing or decreasing C–Z bonds (Z = electronegative atoms)
Conclusion:
The best answer to the question is:
👉 “Both increased number of C–H bonds and fewer C–Z bonds”
This accurately captures the key structural changes in a compound during reduction.
