Cannizzaro reaction (non-enolizable aldehydes) (Disproportionation: no α-H aldehyde → alcohol + carboxylate in strong base)

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Disproportionation: no α-H aldehyde → alcohol + carboxylate in strong base

What each symbol means

SymbolWhat it stands for
RCHOAromatic or formaldehyde-type aldehyde lacking enolizable α-H

When to use this

Concentrated aqueous alkali; aldehyde without α-hydrogen; simultaneous oxidation and reduction within the same molecule class.