Chapter 17, Problem 17.3YT

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The mechanism for each of the hydration reactions shown in table $\text{17-1}$ is to be drawn.

Concept introduction:

A nucleophilic ${\text{(HO}}^{\text{-}}\text{)}$ addition reaction involves a $\text{π}$ bond which has an atom that is relatively electron poor (i.e., electrophile), so it tends to undergo the addition of a nucleophile, which is electron rich. The most common polar $\text{π}$ bond that participates in nucleophilic addition reactions is the one in the carbonyl $\left(\text{C = O}\right)$ group. To avoid exceeding the octet on the $\text{C}$ atom attacked by the nucleophile, the $\text{π}$ bond is broken and the pair of electrons from the $\text{π}$ bond becomes a lone pair on the more electronegative $\text{O }$ atom. The immediate product of a nucleophilic addition is often a strong base because it possesses a relatively unstable negative charge stabilized by proton transfer step in the weakly acidic solvent, water.