Clemmensen Reduction (C=O → CH₂ using Zn(Hg) / conc. HCl)
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C=O → CH₂ using Zn(Hg) / conc. HCl
What each symbol means
| Symbol | What it stands for |
|---|---|
| Zn(Hg) | Zinc amalgam — reducing agent |
| R₂C=O | Aldehyde or ketone substrate |
| conc. HCl | Concentrated hydrochloric acid — acidic medium |
When to use this
Strongly acidic conditions. Substrate must be stable in acid. Not suitable for base-sensitive or acid-labile substrates. Complementary to Wolff–Kishner (basic conditions).