Chapter 16, Problem 16.61P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The mechanism for the biological conversion of linalyl diphosphate to limonene is to be drawn.

Concept introduction: In biological reactions, allylic carbocations are the intermediates that are required for the formation of limonene.

The general steps involved in the biological formation of limonene are stated below.

• The first step is the generation of allylic carbocation by the loss of the diphosphate group.

• The second step is the formation of six-membered ring.

• The third step is the deprotonation to give final product.