Q21-15P

Question


What product would you expect from reaction of one equivalent of methanol with a cyclic anhydride, such as phthalic anhydride   (1,2-benzenedicarboxylic anhydride)? What is the fate of the second “half” of the anhydride?




Step-by-Step Solution

Verified
Answer



The product of the reaction is aspirin: 





The second anhydride can further react to give diacetate:




1Step 1: Product of the reaction


The product will be acetyl salicylic acid that is aspirin.



2Step 2: Fate of second half of anhydride


The second anhydride can further react to give diacetate.