Chapter 13, Problem 13.44P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

How propoxybenzene can be synthesized using phenol and alcohol as the only source of carbon atoms is to be shown.

Concept introduction:

Retrosynthetic analysis involves considering the reaction sequence in reverse. The analysis starts with the product determining the precursor that can produce it when the reaction is carried out in the forward direction. The retrosynthesis step, called a transform, does not consider a specific reaction or reaction conditions for the reaction in the forward direction. The transform is represented by an open arrow ($\Rightarrow$). It is a proposed undoing of a single reaction and dissects the target into a simpler precursor. This process is continued till an easily available or easily synthesized precursor is reached.

The synthesis in forward direction is then determined on the basis of the structural differences and the functional groups that have to be incorporated or modified. The specific reaction and reaction conditions are determined at this stage.