What is the product of the reduction of a carboxylic ester using a reagent prepared from BF₃-etherate and LiAlH₄

Options

(a) A carboxylic acid
(b) An alcohol
(c) A cyclic ester
(d) An ether

Correct Answer:

An alcohol

Explanation:

Esters on reduction with ethereal solution of LiAlH₄ gives mixture of alcohols. e.g. Ethyl acetate on reduction with the above reagent gives ethyl alcohol.CH₃ – COOC₂H₅(ethyl acetate) + 4 [H] → 2C₂H₅OH(Ethyl alcohol)