Reduction

The simplest reaction (conceptually) of carboxylic acids is the reverse of the reaction by which they are formed. They can be reduced to make aldehydes and primary alcohols, as shown here (and in Example 4 in your workbook). Again, unless carefully controlled, the reaction seems to pass right through the aldehyde stage to the primary alcohol.

Equation showing the reduction of carboxylic acid to aldehyde and alcohol. [64rxn01.JPG]