Question

1. Why is the expected epoxide NOT formed in the absence of a buffer?

-mCPBA is not reactive without the buffer

-The buffer acts as a catalyst

-The buffer prevents a nucleophile from attacking the epoxide oxygen

-Acidic solutions provide a reactive environment in which the epoxide oxygen is protonated and the ring is opened

2. What product is expected to form in the absence of a buffer?

-4-chlorobenzoate ester

-trans-anethole oxide

-only entropy knows

-3-chlorobenzoate ester

Answer 1

1. Correct answer: Acidic solutions provide a reactive environment in which the epoxide oxygen is protonated and the ring is opened

The buffered aqueous medium seems especially suitable for acid-sensitive olefins and epoxides. Opening reaction products sometimes contaminate the epoxide in the absence of buffer in such cases. So, it is the reason for using the buffer in this reaction.

.

3. Correct answer: 3-chlorobenzoate ester