Question

Question: Draw the product of each reaction.

a.

b.

Short answer

Answer

a.

b.

Step-by-step solution

Step-by-Step Solution Step 1: Reaction of thiols

Several reactions shown by hydroxyl compounds are also shown by thiols. Thioethers are generated when thiols are subjected to alkylation.

Product of reaction a

The treatment of thiols with sodium hydride and an alkyl halide leads to the formation of sulfide. This reaction follows the ${\mathrm{S}}_{\mathrm{N}}2$mechanism and is analogous to Williamson ether synthesis. The reaction is given as follows.

Product of reaction a

Product of reaction b

Sulfides possess a nucleophilic sulfur atom. The unhindered alkyl halide given below combines with the sulfur atom, leading to the creation of the sulfonium ion. This is a single-step reaction having the ${\mathrm{S}}_{\mathrm{N}}2$mechanism.

Product of reaction b