As noted in the “A Word About . . . Alkaloids and the Dart-Poison Frogs” on page 341, many...

As noted in the “A Word About . . . Alkaloids and the Dart-Poison Frogs” on page 341, many alkaloids have potent efficacy with regard to disrupting neurological function. Methamphetamine hydrochloride is an addictive and toxic stimulant.

a. Outline a synthesis of methamphetamine hydrochloride (shown below) that uses 1-phenyl-2-propanone (phenylacetone) and methylamine as carbon sources.

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b. Will the product of your proposed synthesis be optically active or racemic? Explain why.