Chapter 15.4, Problem 15.4BFP

(a)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The organic reactant which reacts with sodium methoxide to give 2-methyl-2-butene has to be determined.

Concept Introduction:

${\text{E}}_{\text{2}}$ Reaction:

The secondary and tertiary alkyl halides usually undergo ${\text{E}}_{\text{2}}$ reaction.  The reaction mechanism is single step concerted mechanism with one transition state. 

Alkyl halide when reacts with alkoxide (which acts as a base), an elimination reaction occurs and forms an alkene.

(b)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The organic reactant which reacts with ${\text{Cr}}_{\text{2}}{\text{O}}_{\text{7}}{}^{\text{2-}}{\text{ and H}}_{\text{2}}{\text{SO}}_{\text{4}}$ to give propionic acid has to be determined.

Concept Introduction:

The reagents ${\text{Cr}}_{\text{2}}{\text{O}}_{\text{7}}{}^{\text{2-}}{\text{ and H}}_{\text{2}}{\text{SO}}_{\text{4}}$ are oxidizing agents used for oxidation of molecules.  Oxidation is said to be the addition of oxygen atoms or removal of hydrogens.  The oxidizing agent oxidizes the molecule and undergoes reduction.