Chapter 21, Problem 21.37AP

Interpretation Introduction

(a)

Interpretation:

The product of the reaction of levulinic acid with excess ${\text{LiAlH}}_{\text{4}}$, then ${\text{H}}_{\text{3}}{\text{O}}^{+}$ is to be predicted.

Concept introduction:

The metal hydride reagents are good reducing agents such as ${\text{LiAlH}}_{\text{4}}$. Lithium aluminum hydride is used in many organic syntheses as a reducing agent. Lithium aluminum hydride can reduce a carboxylic acid into ketone or aldehyde. The ketone or aldehyde can be further reduced to an alcohol.

Interpretation Introduction

(b)

Interpretation:

The product of the reaction of levulinic acid with excess ${\text{NaBH}}_{\text{4}}$ in methanol, then ${\text{H}}_{\text{3}}{\text{O}}^{+}$ is to be predicted.

Concept introduction:

The metal hydride reagents are good reducing agents such as ${\text{NaBH}}_{\text{4}}$. Sodium boron hydride is used in many organic syntheses as a reducing agent. Sodium boron hydride can reduce carbonyl groups of ketone or aldehyde reduced to into hydroxyl group.