An organic compound 'P' with molecular formula C ₅ H ₁₀ O gives a positive iodoform test but a negative Tollens' test. Upon Clemmensen reduction, 'P' yields n-pentane. When 'P' is treated with HCN followed by heating with 95% H ₂ SO ₄ , the major product 'Q' is formed. The IUPAC name of 'Q' is:

Step-by-step solution

The molecular formula of 'P' is C ₅ H ₁₀ O . A negative Tollens' test indicates it is a ketone. A positive iodoform test confirms the presence of a methyl ketone ( - CO - CH ₃ ) group. Since Clemmensen reduction of 'P' yields straight-chain n-pentane, 'P' must be pentan-2-one ( CH ₃- CO - CH ₂- CH ₂- CH ₃ ). Pentan-2-one reacts with HCN to form a cyanohydrin, CH ₃- C ( OH )( CN )- CH ₂- CH ₂- CH ₃ . Heating this cyanohydrin with 95% H ₂ SO ₄ first hydrolyzes the - CN group to a - COOH group, forming 2-hydroxy-2-met