Clemmensen Reduction

Professor Dave explains Clemmensen Reduction, a reaction that converts ketones to alkanes using amalgamated zinc in hydrochloric acid. The mechanism is disputed, with two main hypotheses. A key application is in Friedel-Crafts chemistry, where Clemmensen Reduction helps achieve straight-chain alkyl groups on benzene rings. The process involves a two-step sequence: Friedel-Crafts acylation followed by Clemmensen Reduction. This method avoids carbocation rearrangement issues seen in alkylation.

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