Chapter 6, Problem 34P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The structures of compounds A and B including stereochemistry in the given sequence of reactions are to be determined.

Concept Introduction:

${\text{S}}_{\text{N}}\text{2}$ reactions work best with primary alkyl halides.

The nucleophile approaches the carbon atom attached to the halogen from the back side, and hence inversion of configuration takes place.

The stereochemistry at any other carbon atoms remains unchanged since the reaction does not take place at those carbon atoms.

Reaction of alcohols with a tosyl group does not change the stereochemistry at the carbon atom attached to the hydroxyl group.