Question

When a new synthetic method is developed, it is applied to a series of compounds to explore its utility. 4-Fluorophenylacetonitrile was used as a substrate in a synthetic methodology research paper. Provide a synthesis for 4-fluorophenylacetonitrile using an SN2 reaction. Begin with a retrosynthesis of the target molecule. identify all

Answer 1

Answer:

See explanation

Explanation:

Since the -CH3CN and the -F are in 1,4 position, then the synthesis started with flourobenzene. This has to be because -F is ortho-para directing in nucleophilic substitution.

The next step is the Friedel craft alkylation of the substrate. The alkyl group is directed to the para position by the -F.

Bromination using NBS yields an alkyl bromide that undergoes SN2 substitution to yield the target compound.