Chapter 13, Problem 56P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

A reasonable mechanism for the isomerization of $\text{2-isopropyl-1,3,5-trimethylbenzene}$ to $\text{1-isopropyl-2,4,5-trimethylbenzene}$ when heated with aluminum chloride and a trace amount of HCl for four hours at ${\text{50}}^{\text{o}}\text{C}$ is to be suggested.

Concept Introduction:

If a reaction can proceed through different pathways, the higher energy transition state or intermediate is formed under thermodynamic control and leads to a more stable product.

Isomer with higher steric interactions is relatively less stable.