Chemistry
10th Edition
ISBN:9781305957404
Author:Steven S. Zumdahl, Susan A. Zumdahl, Donald J. DeCoste
Publisher:Steven S. Zumdahl, Susan A. Zumdahl, Donald J. DeCoste
Chapter1: Chemical Foundations
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 1RQ: Define and explain the differences between the following terms. a. law and theory b. theory and...
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Transcribed Image Text:**Reaction Mechanism: Ester Hydrolysis in Basic Conditions**
In the given reaction, an ester is being hydrolyzed in the presence of a hydroxide ion (−OH). This is a nucleophilic substitution reaction that results in the formation of a carboxylate ion and methanol.
**Reaction Steps:**
1. **Nucleophilic Attack**: The hydroxide ion (−OH) acts as a nucleophile and attacks the carbonyl carbon of the ester. This results in the formation of a tetrahedral intermediate.
2. **Intermediate Formation**: The negatively charged oxygen of the tetrahedral intermediate re-forms the carbonyl double bond, causing the methoxy group (−OCH3) to leave.
3. **Product Formation**: The carboxylate ion (with a negative charge on the oxygen) and methanol (CH3OH) are formed.
**Diagram Explanation:**
- On the left side of the arrow, the ester structure is depicted, with a carbonyl group (C=O) and an attached methoxy group (−OCH3).
- The hydroxide ion (−OH) is shown as the reactant leading to the right side of the equation.
- On the right side of the arrow, the products include a carboxylate ion (indicated by the negatively charged oxygen) and methanol (CH3OH).
This mechanism illustrates how esters are converted into their corresponding carboxylate ions and alcohols under basic conditions.
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