The velocity of the cannizzaro reaction

The aim of this investigation was to study how the Cannizzaro reaction: was affected by various factors. Experiments were carried out initially in ethyl alcoholic media. Ethyl alcohol, however, is not a suitable solvent in which to study this reaction, since, especially at higher temperatures, the Cannizzaro reaction is greatly affected by he Zagoumenny reaction: in which the acetaldehyde formed resinifies. Methyl alcohol, however, proved a very satisfactory solvent since in this case the Zagoumenny reaction was practically non‐existant. Measurements carried out in methyl alcohol show that: The Cannizzaro reaction is a trimolecular reaction methyl alcohol has a retarding effect on the reaction the reaction takes place 2.2 times more rapidly for a 10° rise in temperature. there is practically no difference in the velocity of the reaction whether caustic potash or caustic soda is used as the alkali. in so far as it is not interfered with by the Zagoumenny reaction, the reaction proceeds much more quickly in ethyl alcohol than in methyl alcohol. anisaldehyde and p‐toluylaldehyde react much more slowly and p‐chlorobenzaldehyde more rapidly than benzaldehyde.