Question

1. Discuss the importance of NMR analysis for Organic Molecules.

2. Description:
Acetaminophen was reacted with K2CO3 and iodoethane to yield phenacetin in Williamson Ether Synthesis. Would a similar reaction take place if cyclohexanol, K2CO3 and iodoethane were mixed to gather? Discuss.

Answer 1

1. NMR analysis is of prime importance in organic chemistry. It is a tool used to identify the structure of the compound by extimating the chemical shifts of the protons and carbons in the compound. Every proton and carbon environment have a typical chemical shift and this can be easily identified to get the correct structure of the compound.

2. No the reaction of cyclohexanol, K2CO3 and iodoethane would not take place in a similar manner as in the case of acetaminophen to form phenacetin. This is because phenols are more acidic in nature and easily form phenoxide ion which then reacts in Williamson's ether synthesis fashion to give the phenacetin product. Whereas, cycohexanols are not acidic enough and base K2CO3 is not strong enough to pick the hydroxy proton.