Question

Is the above reaction an example of solvolysis reaction? Give the reason for your answer.

Answer 1

Hint: Solvolysis reactions are kind of substitution reactions. In these reactions solvent displaces an atom present in a molecule. The ethanol given here is a solvent molecule.

Complete step by step answer:
* First, let us know about the solvolysis, or solvolytic reactions. In this reaction an atom, or group present in a molecule is replaced by another atom, or group of atoms. The solvent present in the reaction produces electron-rich atoms that act as a nucleophile, and displace an atom.
* Now, in the given reaction ethanol present behaves as a solvent as mentioned, so it will act as a nucleophile too.
* The first step will be the formation of a carbocation by displacement of an atom I present at the ortho position, we can see it in the figure.
* In the second step, nucleophile formed will attack, and then there will be the deprotonation of molecules.
Thus, we can say that the end product given in the figure will be formed after the deprotonation of a molecule.
So, this mechanism, and the reaction given satisfies all the conditions of solvolysis reaction.
Hence, we can conclude that the given reaction is an example of solvolysis reaction.

Note: Don’t get confused while identifying the reaction, we can clearly see that there is presence of ethanol which is a solvent, and an atom is also present to displace, and form a carbocation. So, at last there is removal of a proton. Just do it step by step, and we would know the answer.