Chapter 16, Problem 72P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The role of $1,4\text{-diazabicyclo}\left[2,2,2\right]\text{octane}$(DABCO) in transesterification reaction is to be explained.

Concept introduction:

Transesterification is the process of formation of a new ester molecule from the reaction of alcohol and an ester. This is like hydrolysis of ester but here nucleophile is alcohol molecule instead of ${\text{H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}$. As alkoxide groups have comparable basicity, therefore, an excess amount of alcohol is used. The rate of reaction can be increased in the presence of a base by increasing the nucleophilicity of the alcohol by deprotonating the oxygen atom of alcohol. A general transesterification is written as,