What is the Difference Between Cyanohydrin and Nitrile?

Cyanohydrin and nitrile compounds are both organic compounds containing the cyano functional group (-CN), but they differ in their structure and properties. The key difference between cyanohydrin and nitrile is that cyanohydrin compounds contain a cyano group and a hydroxy group, whereas nitrile compounds only have a cyano group.

Cyanohydrins have the general formula R2C(OH)CN, where R is H, alkyl, or aryl. They are industrially important precursors to carboxylic acids and some amino acids. Cyanohydrins can be formed by the cyanohydrin reaction, which involves treating a ketone or an aldehyde with hydrogen cyanide (HCN) in the presence of a catalyst.

Nitriles, on the other hand, are formed by an SN2 reaction between a bromide and sodium cyanide. They are used in various applications, such as nitrile rubber, which is a synthetic copolymer of acrylonitrile and butadiene. This form of rubber is highly resistant to chemicals and is used to make protective gloves, hoses, and seals.

In summary:

• Cyanohydrins contain a cyano group and a hydroxy group.
• Nitriles contain only a cyano group.
• Cyanohydrins are used as precursors to carboxylic acids and amino acids.
• Nitriles are used in applications like nitrile rubber.

Comparative Table: Cyanohydrin vs Nitrile

Cyanohydrins and nitriles are both organic compounds containing the cyano functional group (-CN). However, there are some differences between them. Here is a comparison table highlighting the key differences:

Cyanohydrins have a cyano group and a hydroxy group, while nitriles only have a cyano group. Cyanohydrins can be formed through the addition of hydrogen cyanide (HCN) to aldehydes and ketones, while nitriles are typically formed through an SN2 reaction between primary and secondary alkyl halides and sodium cyanide. Nitriles have a higher boiling point than cyanohydrins due to the increased polarity of the nitrile group.