Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements is true about the Diels-Alder reaction in organic chemistry?
A
It requires a radical initiator to proceed.
B
It is a [4+2] cycloaddition reaction.
C
It involves the formation of a carbocation intermediate.
D
It is a [2+2] cycloaddition reaction.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the Diels-Alder reaction: It is a type of cycloaddition reaction that forms a six-membered ring by combining a conjugated diene and a dienophile.
Identify the type of cycloaddition: The Diels-Alder reaction is specifically a [4+2] cycloaddition, meaning it involves the interaction of four π electrons from the diene and two π electrons from the dienophile.
Clarify the mechanism: The Diels-Alder reaction proceeds through a concerted mechanism, meaning all bond-making and bond-breaking processes occur simultaneously without intermediates like radicals or carbocations.
Compare with other cycloadditions: A [2+2] cycloaddition involves two π electrons from each reactant, which is not characteristic of the Diels-Alder reaction.
Conclude the correct statement: Based on the understanding of the Diels-Alder reaction, the true statement is that it is a [4+2] cycloaddition reaction.