Question

Question: CPC (cetylpyridinium chloride), an antiseptic found in throat lozenges and mouthwash, is synthesized by the following reaction. Draw the structure of CPC.

Short answer

The structure of CPC is shown below:

Step-by-step solution

CPC

CPC stands for cetylpyridinium chloride, which is an example of a cationic surfactant and has a quaternary ammonium portion. It finds application in toothpaste and sprays. It also functions as an antiseptic

Reaction of Lewis base and Lewis acid

The lone pair of nitrogen of pyridine (acts as Lewis base) donates its electron pair to the electrophilic carbon atom of 1-chlorohexadecane (acts as Lewis acid). This leads to the removal of the chlorine group.

The complete reaction is shown below:

Structure and formation of CP