(a) When the reduction of alkynes to alkenes by Na in liquid ammonia is attempted with a...

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(a) When the reduction of alkynes to alkenes by Na in liquid ammonia is attempted with a 1-alkyne, every three moles of 1-alkyne give only one mole of alkene and two moles of the acetylenic anion:3RC=CH Na NH3 (liq) RCH=CH + 2RC=C: Na+

Explain this result using the mechanism of this reduction and what you know about the acidity of 1-alkynes.

(b) When (NH4)2SO4 is added to the reaction mixture, the 1-alkyne is converted completely into the alkene. Explain.

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Organic Chemistry

ISBN: 9781936221349

6th Edition

Authors: Marc Loudon, Jim Parise

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