last updated Thursday, February 27, 2003

Problems Set #9

1. In the esterification step, what is the function of

a. the methanol

b. the sulfuric acid

2. Outline a separation scheme for the isolation of the ester. How could you recover any unreacted benzoic acid?

3. Complete the following reactions (show all products!)

4.

For each of the below aryl compounds designate (circle) the carbon most likely to undergo electrophilic aromatic substitution.

5. During the nitration step, explain why does the amount of the dinitro derivative increases with increase in temperature of the reaction mixture? How can you prevent this from happening? Explain.

6. What is the function of the sulfuric acid in the nitration reaction? Explain.

7. Why is the nitronium ion a stronger electrophile than a acylium ion?