Page 4 Flashcards
What are the most common types of bases used in dehydrohalogenation reactions?
A: Negatively charged oxygen compounds, such as hydroxide ions (HO⁻) and alkoxides (RO⁻).
Why are alkoxides (RO⁻) commonly used as bases in dehydrohalogenation?
A: Alkoxides are strong bases that efficiently abstract β-hydrogens, facilitating elimination.
What is the significance of using bulky bases like potassium tert-butoxide in elimination reactions?
A: Bulky bases favor the formation of the less substituted alkene (Hofmann product) due to steric hindrance.
Which base is often used for dehydrohalogenation in polar protic solvents?
A: Sodium hydroxide (Na⁺OH⁻) or potassium hydroxide (K⁺OH⁻) in water or alcohol.
How does the choice of base affect the outcome of an elimination reaction?
A: Stronger and bulkier bases can influence the regioselectivity and lead to the formation of specific alkene products.
