Question

Draw a stepwise mechanism for the following reaction

Short answer

The mechanism for the reaction

Step-by-step solution

Ring contraction reactions

A synthesis reaction that includes a series of steps that decreases the number of carbon atoms in the ring is called ring contraction reaction.

Cyclic compounds having smaller rings are difficult to form due to the steric hindrance during the formation.

In such cases, higher cyclic compounds are synthesized and ring contraction reactions are carried out.

Rearrangement reactions

Reactions in which a single molecule rearranges itself to attain more stability are called rearrangement reactions.

In these reactions, there will only be one reactant and a catalyst.

Rearrangement reactions can be catalyzed by both acids and bases. The catalysts produce a positive or negative charge in the compound to initiate rearrangement.

Mechanism of the given reaction

The oxygen in the ring attaches to the proton in the solution causing the opening of the ring.

The oxygen in the hydroxyl group attaches to the carbocation site forming a five-membered ring.

The compound is stabilized by the removal of a proton.

The mechanism for the rearrangement reaction