Can the hydration of aldehydes and ketones also be catalyzed by a base instead of an acid? Explain why.

• A. Yes, the reaction can be catalyzed using a base because no group needs to leave after the nucleophile attack.
• B. No, the reaction can not be catalyzed using a base because aldehydes or ketones are sensitive toward bases.
• C. Yes, the reaction can be catalyzed using a base because the mechanism starts with the deprotonation of the aldehyde or ketone.
• D. No, the reaction can not be catalyzed using a base because the mechanism must start with the protonation of the carbonyl carbon.

Answer: (A)