Chapter 16, Problem 72IP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The reactivity of nitroethylene and ethylene in a Diels-Alder reaction should be compared.

Concept introduction:

• Diels-Alder reaction is a $\left[\text{4+2}\right]\text{ cycloaddition}$ reaction, in which a π-system having four atoms (diene) and a π-system having two atoms (dienophile) are undergoing in cycloaddition reaction and producing a substituted cyclohexene.
• The reactivity of dienophiles are depending upon the substituents attached to it, the electron-withdrawing substituent such as carbonyl groups or nitro-groups activate the dienophile for Diels-Alder reaction by making the dienophiles more reactive to dienes.

To compare: the reactivity of nitroethylene and ethylene in a Diels-Alder reaction.