convert HCHO to CH3CHO

Here,

HCHO (in presence of [i]CH3MgBr and [ii]H2O,H+) it gives----------
---->
CH3CH2OH (now in presence of PCC or Cu at 573K) it gives us -----
----->CH3CHO

To convert formaldehyde (HCHO) to acetaldehyde (CH3CHO), you need to undergo a reduction reaction, which involves adding hydrogen (H2) to the formaldehyde molecule. Here's a step-by-step explanation:

1. Start by balancing the chemical equation:

HCHO + H2 → CH3CHO

Ensure that both sides of the equation have an equal number of atoms for each element.

2. Determine the reagents needed for the reduction reaction. In this case, you'll need a reducing agent that can provide hydrogen (H2). Common reducing agents include metal hydrides like lithium aluminum hydride (LiAlH4) or sodium borohydride (NaBH4). In this example, we will use NaBH4.

3. Write the reaction using the reducing agent:

HCHO + NaBH4 → CH3CHO + NaBH3OH

Sodium borohydride (NaBH4) reacts with formaldehyde (HCHO) to produce acetaldehyde (CH3CHO) and NaBH3OH, which is a byproduct.

4. Balance the chemical equation:

HCHO + NaBH4 → CH3CHO + NaBH3OH

Make sure the equation is balanced by ensuring that there is an equal number of atoms for each element on both sides of the equation.

5. Perform the reaction in the presence of the reducing agent. Sodium borohydride is commonly used in a solvent such as methanol or ethanol. The reaction may need appropriate conditions like temperature and pressure, which are specific to the reaction conditions and concentration of the reagents.

6. Isolate and purify the desired product, acetaldehyde (CH3CHO), from the reaction mixture using suitable separation techniques such as distillation or chromatography.

Remember to always perform chemical reactions in a safe and controlled environment, following proper laboratory protocols and guidelines.