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What is the result of an addition reaction with THF (tetrahydrofuran) and borane?

A) Oxidation
B) Hydrolysis
C) Reduction
D) Esterification

1 Answer

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Final answer:

The reaction between tetrahydrofuran (THF) and borane is a reduction reaction where borane serves as a reducing agent, adding hydrogen to THF, which matches the fundamental characteristic of reduction reactions in organic chemistry. Option c is the correct answer.

Step-by-step explanation:

The result of an addition reaction between tetrahydrofuran (THF) and borane is hydride transfer from borane to THF, which is considered a reduction reaction.

This is because borane (BH3) acts as a reducing agent, adding hydrogen (specifically a hydride, H-) to the THF. This process is analogous to hydrogenation reactions where molecular hydrogen is added to alkenes to produce alkanes, and such reactions are categorized as reductions since they increase the hydrogen content of the molecule.

Typically, in organic reactions, a reduction involves the addition of hydrogen to the molecule, while an oxidation usually involves the addition of oxygen or the loss of hydrogen.

Looking at the reference information provided, the type of reaction formed when borane and THF react does not involve oxidation, hydrolysis, or esterification, but rather reduction, fitting the context of a reducing chemical reaction.

Therefore, based on the concept of reducing chemical reactions, where hydrogen is added to the substrate, the correct option for the reaction between THF and borane is C) Reduction.

User Corey Floyd
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