Help with Other Named Reactions - Organic Chemistry

Card 1 of 156

0
Didn't Know
Knew It
0
1 of 2019 left
Question

Wesag2o

Why does the reaction above require the use of Ag2O?

Tap to reveal answer

Answer

The Ag2O oxidizes the alcohol to form the alkoxide ion. The Ag2O is a reducing agent, and it oxidizes the alcohol because the alcohol loses a proton. Ag2O is a strong base, meaning it will accept protons readily. The given reaction is an example of Williamson ether synthesis. This reaction occurs via an SN2 pathway.

← Didn't Know|Knew It →