Question

What is the significance of Oppenauer oxidation?

Answer 1

Hint :Oppenauer Oxidation is the process of selectively converting secondary alcohols to ketones. Rupert Viktor Oppenauer is the name given to this reaction. In the presence of $$\left[Al{\left(i-Pro\right)}_3\right]$$ in excess of acetone, the oxidation reaction occurs.

Complete Step By Step Answer:
Oppenauer oxidation is the conversion of primary and secondary alcohols to aldehydes and ketones in the presence of metal alkoxides. Because secondary alcohols oxidise more quicker than primary alcohols during this oxidation, perfect chemoselectivity can be accomplished.The Meerwein–Ponndorf–Verley reaction is the reversal of the reduction of aldehydes and ketones to alcohols. Several complete synthesis initiatives have exploited the Oppenauer oxidation, including the synthesis of lycopodium alkaloids like lycodoline.
Significance of Oppenauer oxidation are as follows:-
1. The Oppenauer oxidation is an organic reaction that uses an excess ketone reagent (such as acetone) and an aluminium triisopropoxide catalyst to convert a primary or secondary alcohol to a ketone.
2. The process of selective oxidation of secondary alcohols to ketones is known as Oppenauer oxidation.
3. Oppenauer oxidation is a highly chemoselective oxidation method.
4. In the pharmaceutical business, the Oppenauer oxidation is used to make analgesics like morphine and codeine.
5. Hormones are also synthesised using the Oppenauer oxidation method. The Oppenauer oxidation of pregnenolone produces progesterone.

Note :
Although the conventional Oppenauer Oxidation is a highly chemoselective oxidation method, it has some drawbacks, including the usage of high temperatures and significant quantities of ketone hydride acceptors, as well as the generation of aldol condensation products with the hydride acceptors. The creation of more efficient Oppenauer type oxidations that can be performed under gentler temperatures has been the focus of research.