NaBH₄ vs LiAlH₄: Choosing a Hydride Reducing Agent: Mechanism + Exam Traps

Choose between NaBH₄ and LiAlH₄ by functional group: aldehydes/ketones vs esters/acids/amides, solvent compatibility, and workup requirements.

  • Reaction: NaBH₄ vs LiAlH₄: Choosing a Hydride Reducing Agent
  • What it does: Choose between NaBH₄ and LiAlH₄ by functional group: aldehydes/ketones vs esters/acids/amides, solvent compatibility, and workup requirements.
  • Typical reagents: LiAlH4, then H2O (NaBH4 would not reduce ester well)
  • Key intermediate: Varies / context-dependent
  • Driving force: Hydride delivery to electrophile
  • Exam type: Predict major product
  • Exam type: Mechanism choice

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