Question

Show how you would use a Strecker synthesis to make

1. Leucine (b) Valine (c) Aspartic acid

Answer

Short answer

(a)

Formation of leucine

(b)

Formation of valine

(c)

Formation of aspartic acid

Step-by-step solution

Formation of amino acids by Strecker synthesis

In Strecker synthesis, an aldehyde is treated with ammonia $\left({\mathbf{NH}}_{\mathbf{3}}\right)$,and then the addition of hydrogen cyanide $\left(\mathbf{HCN}\right)$ takes place,followed by hydrolysis $\left({\mathbf{H}}_{\mathbf{3}}{\mathbf{O}}^{\mathbf{+}}\right)$to form the respective amide.

(a)

The Strecker synthesis for leucine is shown by the reaction given below:

Formation of leucine

(b)

The Strecker synthesis for valine is shown by the reaction given below:

Formation of valine

(c)

The Strecker synthesis for aspartic acid is shown by the reaction given below:

Formation of aspartic acid