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Question 1

What is the general role of a base in the elimination of HX reactions?

Answer 1

A: The base abstracts a proton (H⁺) from the β-carbon, facilitating the removal of the leaving group (X⁻) and the formation of a double bond (alkene).

Question 2

In the elimination of HX, what are the two key products?

Answer 2

A: An alkene (main product) and by-products, which include the conjugate acid of the base and the halide ion (X⁻).

Question 3

What is the base used in the first reaction example involving CH₃CH₂-C(H)₂-Br?

Answer 3

A: Potassium tert-butoxide (K⁺ -OC(CH₃)₃).

Question 4

What is the alkene formed in the first example of HX elimination?

Answer 4

A: Propene (CH₃CH=CH₂).

Question 5

What determines whether a β-hydrogen is abstracted during elimination reactions?

Answer 5

A: The β-hydrogen’s accessibility, the base strength, and the stability of the resulting alkene.