Benzaldehyde is treated with (i) NaCN, H+ (aq); (ii) LiAlH4, ether; (iii) aqueous work-up. The final product is

JEE Advanced levelSingle correct optionDifficulty 3 of 3o1094

Benzaldehyde is treated with (i) $NaCN$ , $H X^{+}$ (aq); (ii) $LiAlH X_{4}$ , ether; (iii) aqueous work-up. The final product is

Step (i) gives mandelonitrile,

C X_{6} H X_{5} - CH (OH) - CN

LiAlH X_{4}

reduces the nitrile to

- CH X_{2} NH X_{2}

and leaves the secondary alcohol, giving

C X_{6} H X_{5} - CH (OH) - CH X_{2} NH X_{2}

. A hydrolysis route (acid) would give mandelic acid, but no such step is used.