question_answer

In the preparation of aldehydes from primary alcohols, aldehydes formed must be distilled as soon as they are formed. Why?

Answer:

                Aldehydes formed as a result of the oxidation of primary alcohols are prone to further oxidation and are expected to form acids. Therefore, it is advisable to remove them from the reaction mixture by distillation in case these are low boiling. Otherwise, other methods must be used to convert primary alcohols into aldehydes.