Describe how each of the following compounds could be synthesized from the given starting material.
a.

Functional groups are specific groups of atoms within molecules that are responsible for the characteristic chemical reactions of those molecules. In organic chemistry, understanding the functional groups present in a compound is crucial for predicting reactivity and synthesis pathways. For example, the presence of hydroxyl (-OH) groups indicates alcohols, which can undergo various reactions such as dehydration or oxidation.

A reaction mechanism is a step-by-step description of how a chemical reaction occurs, detailing the bond-breaking and bond-forming processes. Understanding mechanisms is essential for predicting the products of a reaction and for designing synthetic pathways. For instance, knowing whether a reaction proceeds via an electrophilic addition or a nucleophilic substitution can guide the choice of reagents and conditions needed for synthesis.

Stereochemistry involves the study of the spatial arrangement of atoms in molecules and how this affects their chemical behavior. In organic synthesis, the stereochemical configuration of reactants can influence the outcome of reactions, leading to different isomers. Recognizing stereochemical aspects is vital when synthesizing compounds, as it can determine the selectivity and yield of the desired product.