In: Chemistry
What is the differnce between linear synthesis and convergent synthesis? Why is convergent synthesis in general favored over linear synthesis and When would linear synthesis be used?
Convergent synthesis is a strategic approach in organic synthesis in which a final compound is assembled from pre-assembled compounds. This is a notable approach in total synthesis that is commonly utilized in order to improve the efficiency of multi-step syntheses.
Unlike linear synthesis, where you proceed from A to B to C to D to E, convergent synthesis allows you to first make B from A, D from C, and build the final compound E from B and D. Assuming that each step gives a 90% yield, you can represent linear vs. convergent approaches this way:
Considering that total synthesis involves an incredible number of steps, a 15% difference between the two approaches is tremendous!
The convergent approach is common in the synthesis of dendrimers and glycopeptides.
In linear synthesis, it’s simple enough to imagine that going from one step to another repeatedly and using commercially-available starting materials in the process can proceed relatively smoothly. The linear approach is typically used in building simple structures, while convergent synthesis works especially well for more complex molecules.