[adianadiadi]

During the haloform reaction, the base hydrolysis of α,α,α-trihalocarbonyl compound gives the haloform as the final product.

But why not the halogen groups are substituted by the OH^- to give a trihydroxy compound which can lose water molecule to give finally α keto acid?

Adi

[jake.n]

Which carbon is the better electrophile?

Also, if you are looking for a route to an a-keto acid, try adding cyanide to aldehyde and hydrolyze to the secondary a-hydroxy acid, then oxidize.

[adianadiadi]

Which carbon is the better electrophile?

Also, if you are looking for a route to an a-keto acid, try adding cyanide to aldehyde and hydrolyze to the secondary a-hydroxy acid, then oxidize.

What I feel carbon with 3 halogens must be better electrophile. And that is the question I am asking.

I think the steric factors and the better leaving ability of the CX₃ is crucial in understanding.