Chapter 15.7, Problem 5P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

A series of equations for the synthesis of $\text{2-phenyl-2-butanol}$ from benzene and $\text{2-butyne}$ by using retrosynthetic analysis is to be written by showing all necessary reagents.

Concept introduction:

Grignard and organolithium reagents are nucleophilic. They react with carbonyl groups and form a new carbon-carbon bond.

In the first step, an alkoxymagnesium halide is formed. It is converted to the desired alcohol by reaction with aqueous acid.

If the carbonyl compound is ketone, the product formed is a tertiary alcohol.

Grignard reagents are prepared by the reaction of an alkyl halide with magnesium metal in the presence of a diethyl ether as a solvent.

In this reaction, the solvent must be anhydrous. Hence diethyl ether is used.

Hydration of alkynes in the presence of a mercury $\text{(II)}$ salt produces ketones.