Textbook Question
Predict the product of the following reactions.
(b)
12. Alcohols, Ethers, Epoxides and Thiols
Ether Cleavage
6:56 minutesProblem 24c,d
Textbook Question
What are the major products obtained when each of the following ethers is heated with one equivalent of HI?
c. 
d. 
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Understand the reaction mechanism. When ethers are treated with hydrogen iodide (HI), they undergo cleavage via an SN2 or SN1 mechanism depending on the structure of the ether. The reaction typically produces an alcohol and an alkyl iodide.
Step 2: Analyze the structure of the given ethers. For each ether, identify the alkyl groups attached to the oxygen atom. Determine whether the alkyl groups are primary, secondary, or tertiary, as this will influence the reaction pathway (SN2 or SN1).
Step 3: Predict the site of cleavage. In the case of an SN2 mechanism, the less sterically hindered alkyl group will be attacked by the iodide ion (I⁻), leading to the formation of an alkyl iodide and an alcohol. For an SN1 mechanism, the more stable carbocation will form, leading to the corresponding products.
Step 4: Write the reaction products. For each ether, show the cleavage of the C-O bond and the formation of the alcohol and alkyl iodide. Use the structural information from Step 2 to determine the major products.
Step 5: Verify the major products. Consider factors such as steric hindrance, carbocation stability, and the reactivity of the alkyl groups to confirm the major products for each ether when treated with one equivalent of HI.
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Video duration:
6mKey Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Ethers
Ethers are organic compounds characterized by an oxygen atom connected to two alkyl or aryl groups. They are generally stable and non-reactive under normal conditions but can undergo cleavage reactions when treated with strong acids, such as hydroiodic acid (HI). Understanding the structure and reactivity of ethers is crucial for predicting the products formed during their reaction with HI.
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Acid-Catalyzed Cleavage
Acid-catalyzed cleavage of ethers involves the protonation of the ether oxygen, making the ether bond more susceptible to nucleophilic attack. When heated with HI, the ether is cleaved to form an alcohol and an alkyl iodide. This reaction is significant in organic synthesis as it allows for the generation of useful products from relatively stable starting materials.
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Reaction Mechanism
The reaction mechanism for ether cleavage by HI typically involves two main steps: protonation of the ether oxygen followed by nucleophilic attack by iodide ion. This mechanism highlights the importance of understanding the role of acids and nucleophiles in organic reactions, as well as the stability of intermediates formed during the process. A clear grasp of these mechanisms is essential for predicting the major products of the reaction.
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