Hydroxynitriles Flashcards
1
Q
What are hydroxynitriles?
A
molecules that contain a hydroxyl group and a nitrile group
2
Q
What mechanism do you use to create a hydroxynitrile?
A
nucleophilic addition
3
Q
What can you use to create a hydroxynitrile?
A
aldehydes
ketones
4
Q
How can you create a racemic mixture of hydroxynitriles?
A
The C=O and C=C bonds are planar so there is an equal chance of attack from the nucleophile so there are equal quantities of each enantiomer
5
Q
What precautions do you need to take when producing hydroxynitriles?
A
- KCN is toxic
- Fume cupboard as HCN may be released
- organic compounds are flammable so use a water bath
