Chapter 18.SE, Problem 68GP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Given that the treatment of α-bromoacetophenone, obtained from acetophenone by bromination, with NaBH₄ yields an epoxide. The structure of the epoxide is to be shown and its formation is to be explained.

Concept introduction:

The nucleophilic attack attack of the hydride ion on the carbonyl carbon of the bromoketone and the following internal nucleophilic attack by the negatively charged oxide ion and to eliminate a bromide ion will lead to the formation of the epoxide.

To give:

Given that the treatment of α-bromoacetophenone, prepared from acetophenone, with NaBH₄ yields an epoxide. The structure of the epoxide is to be shown and its formation is to be explained.