Nedd help with Friedel Crafts alkylation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the Friedel Crafts alkylation reaction, specifically the synthesis of 1,4-Di-t-butyl-2,5-dimethoxybenzene from p-Dimethoxybenzene, tert-butanol, and sulfuric acid. Participants seek clarification on the role of acetic acid in the reaction.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the role of acetic acid in the Friedel Crafts alkylation reaction.
  • Another participant suggests that the attacking electrophile in the reaction is the tert-butyl group, formed after sulfuric acid protonates tert-butanol and water leaves.
  • A different participant agrees with the previous claim about the electrophile and proposes that acetic acid serves as a solvent in the reaction, noting its ability to mix with various solvents.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the identity of the attacking electrophile as the tert-butyl group, but the exact role of acetic acid remains somewhat uncertain, with differing views on its function as a solvent.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the specific role of acetic acid, leaving its function open to interpretation.

Swatch
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Need help with Friedel Crafts alkylation

Hi. In my laboratory textbook there is an explanation on how to make 1,4-Di-t-butyl-2,5-dimethoxybenzene from p-Dimethoxybenzene, tert-butanol and sulfuric acid. I am to put acetic acid and t-butyl alcohol to the p-Dimethoxybenzene. What my textbook doesn't explain is what does the acetic acid do in the reaction. Could someone please explain to me.
Thanks.
 
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Swatch, do you know what is the attacking electrophile in this reaction?
 
The attacking electrophile would be the tert-butyl since the sulfuric acid protonated the tert-butanol and water leaves. Is that not correct?
 
Yes, that's is true.
I think that the acetic acid is used as a solvent in this reaction.Generally, acetic acid readily mixes with many other polar and non-polar solvents such as water, chloroform, and hexane.
 
O.K.
Thanks
 

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