Show how you would use anhydrides to synthesize the following compounds. In each case, explain why an anhydride might be preferable to an acid chloride. (c) phthalic acid monoamide (d) succinic acid monomethyl ester
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the reactivity of anhydrides compared to acid chlorides. Anhydrides are less reactive than acid chlorides, making them easier to control in reactions. They also avoid the generation of HCl as a byproduct, which can be corrosive and require neutralization.
Step 2: For (c) phthalic acid monoamide, start with phthalic anhydride. React phthalic anhydride with one equivalent of ammonia (NH₃). The nucleophilic attack of ammonia on one of the carbonyl groups of the anhydride will result in the formation of phthalic acid monoamide and a carboxylic acid group.
Step 3: For (d) succinic acid monomethyl ester, begin with succinic anhydride. React succinic anhydride with one equivalent of methanol (CH₃OH). Methanol will act as a nucleophile, attacking one of the carbonyl groups of the anhydride to form the monomethyl ester and a carboxylic acid group.
Step 4: Explain why anhydrides are preferable to acid chlorides in these syntheses. Acid chlorides are highly reactive and can lead to overreaction or side products. Anhydrides provide better control over the reaction, especially when forming mono-substituted products like monoamides or monomethyl esters.
Step 5: Highlight the importance of stoichiometry in these reactions. Using one equivalent of the nucleophile (ammonia or methanol) ensures that only one carbonyl group of the anhydride reacts, leaving the other as a carboxylic acid group in the final product.
Verified video answer for a similar problem:
This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above
Video duration:
6m
Play a video:
Was this helpful?
Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Anhydrides in Organic Synthesis
Anhydrides are reactive compounds derived from acids by the removal of water. They are commonly used in organic synthesis due to their ability to acylate nucleophiles, forming new carbon-carbon or carbon-nitrogen bonds. Their reactivity allows for the formation of various functional groups, making them versatile intermediates in the synthesis of complex molecules.
While both anhydrides and acid chlorides are effective acylating agents, anhydrides are often preferred due to their milder reactivity and lower toxicity. Acid chlorides can be more reactive, leading to side reactions or degradation of sensitive functional groups. Additionally, anhydrides can provide better selectivity in certain reactions, making them advantageous in multi-step syntheses.
Synthesis of Phthalic Acid Monoamide and Succinic Acid Monomethyl Ester
The synthesis of phthalic acid monoamide and succinic acid monomethyl ester using anhydrides involves nucleophilic attack by amines or alcohols on the anhydride. For phthalic acid monoamide, an amine reacts with phthalic anhydride, while for succinic acid monomethyl ester, methanol reacts with succinic anhydride. Understanding the mechanism of these reactions is crucial for predicting product formation and optimizing yields.