Question

What unwanted reaction would have happened if the reaction mixture was heated too long when trying to get rid of the organic layer?

a) Acetic anhydride would be degraded
b) The product could be converted back to the starting material
c) a & b
d) Nothing, heating for a long time would have ensured removal of the organic layer. Please explain why?

Answer 1

If the reaction mixture is heated too long when trying to get rid of the organic layer, two unwanted reactions could occur: acetic anhydride degradation and conversion back to starting material.

Step-by-step explanation:

If the reaction mixture is heated too long when trying to get rid of the organic layer, two unwanted reactions could occur:

1. Acetic anhydride degradation: Excessive heating can cause the acetic anhydride to break down, leading to the formation of acetic acid. This unwanted reaction reduces the yield of the desired product.
2. Conversion back to starting material: The prolonged heating may also result in the reverse reaction, where the product is converted back to the starting material. This can hinder the progress of the desired reaction.

Therefore, the correct answer is option c) a & b.