Chapter 12, Problem 12.79P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: Dihydroxylation occurs by syn or anti addition, is to be determined using the given method.

Concept introduction: In presence of peroxide, alkene is oxidized to epoxide. This is known as epoxidation. This is a syn addition. The weak pi bond of alkene and weak $\text{O}-\text{O}$ bond of peroxide are broken and two new $\text{C}-\text{O}$ bonds are formed. Breaking of bonds and formation of bonds takes place in a single step. In the opening of epoxide ring, the nucleophile attacks from the backside of $\text{C}-\text{O}$ bond.