Why is zinc dust used in the preparation of acetanilide?

[westdivo]

In the preparation of acetanilide why is it that zinc dust is used?

 

[Borek]

Not having even the slightest idea about organics - zinc is used almost always because of its reducing properties. I would dig here.

 

[alxm]

Acetanilide is typically synthesized from acetic anhydride and aniline.
Zinc isn't required, but it aids acetylation. (for reasons Borek mentioned, as it's a reducing agent)