Chapter 14.5, Problem 2LTS

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: Reagents used in Williamson ether synthesis has to be explained.

Concept Introduction:

Williamson ether synthesis is one of the methods to synthesize Ethers. It involves two steps.

The first step involves the deprotonation of Alcohol to Alkoxide ion

The second step involves in the nucleophilic attack of Alkoxide ion by a ${\text{S}}_{\text{N}}\text{2}$ mechanism.

Mechanism:

A hydride ion acts as a base and deprotonation of Alcohol takes places.

The Alkoxide ion acts as nucleophile and attacks the alkyl halide by ${\text{S}}_{\text{N}}\text{2}$ process.