Chapter 9, Problem 35P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The mechanism for the given reaction has to be proposed.

Concept Introduction:

Ring-opening of epoxide: The epoxide ring is highly strain and readily undergoes reaction with strong nucleophile result in the ring-opening reaction.

Acid-catalyzed ring-opening of epoxide: The epoxide ring is protonated and the nucleophile attack depends on the electronic or steric effect (nature of epoxide).

Regiochemistry: When the epoxide is unsymmetrical, the nucleophile attack at the more substituted position of the protonated epoxide ring.

Stereochemistry: when the nucleophile attack takes place at chiral center, an inversion of configuration is obtained.

Base catalyzed ring opening of epoxide:

The nucleophile will attack at the less substituted position under basic conditions.