Question

Which of these molecules will cyclize to give the insect pheromone frontalin?

Short answer

- Molecule A: - Molecule B: - Molecule C: Answer: [Insert the correct molecule] Explanation: The correct molecule, [Insert the correct molecule], can cyclize to form frontalin because it contains adjacent hydroxyl and methyl groups on its linear structure, allowing the formation of a six-membered ring with the desired functional groups.

Step-by-step solution

Understand frontalin structure

Frontalin is an insect pheromone with the chemical formula C8H12O. Its structure consists of a six-membered carbon ring with a hydroxyl group (OH) and a methyl group (CH3) attached to two adjacent carbon atoms.

Understand cyclization

Cyclization is a chemical reaction that involves the formation of a cyclic compound from a linear molecule. In the case of frontalin, we are looking for molecules that can undergo cyclization to form the six-membered ring containing the hydroxyl and methyl groups on adjacent carbon atoms.

Evaluate each given molecule

For each of the given molecules, examine their structure to determine if they have the necessary functional groups and connectivity to undergo cyclization to form frontalin. In particular, look for the presence of hydroxyl and methyl groups on adjacent carbon atoms and the potential formation of a six-membered ring.

Identify the correct molecule

After evaluating each molecule, determine which one has the potential to cyclize and form frontalin following the criteria described above. Provide a brief explanation of why the selected molecule can form frontalin through cyclization. Upon completing these steps, you should have identified the molecule that can cyclize to give the insect pheromone frontalin.