Chapter 21, Problem 21.34P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The acetal in oleandrin is to be identified. The products formed by acid-catalyzed hydrolysis of the acetal are to be predicted.

Concept introduction: Aldehydes or ketones on reaction with two equivalents of alcohol form acetals. Acetal formation takes place in presence of acids, commonly $p\text{-toluenesulfonicacid}$. This is nucleophilic addition reaction.

Ethers contain only one alkoxy group on a carbon atom while acetals contain two alkoxy groups on a single carbon atom.

Hemiacetals contains one alkoxy group and one hydroxyl group attached to same carbon atom.