Chemistry - ALCOHOL & ETHER Question with Solution | TestHub

Question Explanation:

The given open-chain sugar reacts with HIO₄ . We must find how many molecules of formaldehyde

(HCHO) are formed after periodic acid cleavage.

Concept:

Periodic Acid Cleavage, Vicinal Diol Oxidation, Glycol Cleavage

Solution:

HIO₄ cleaves 1,2-diols (vicinal diols) and also cleaves between –CHOH–CHOH– units.

Rule:

If a carbon has structure –CH₂OH and is part of a vicinal diol, cleavage gives HCHO (formaldehyde)

Given structure