Chapter 12, Problem 12.17P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The products formed when both $cis$ and $trans\text{-but-2-ene}$ are treated with a peroxyacid followed by ${\text{OH}}^{-}$ (in ${\text{H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}$) is to be drawn. An explanation corresponding to the fact that these reactions illustrate that anti dihydroxylation is stereospecific is to be stated.

Concept introduction: Addition of two hydroxyl groups on double bond to form $1,2\text{-diol}$ is known as dihydroxylation. In presence of peroxide, anti dihydroxylation takes place. This reaction occurs in two steps, epoxidation followed by ring opening with the ${\text{OH}}^{-}$.

Stereospecific reactions are those in which the stereochemistry of the reactant controls the stereochemistry of the product.