Chapter 26, Problem 26.33P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: A stepwise mechanism for the given reaction is to be drawn.

Concept introduction: The dihalocarbenes are synthesized by ${\text{CHX}}_{\text{3}}$ and base. Another method to synthesize this is the decomposition of sodium trichloroacetate. The overall reaction involves cleavage of the $\text{C}-\text{C}$ bond followed by elimination of ${\text{Cl}}^{-}$.