Friday, February 25, 2011

Benzocaine

In chemistry class we were asked a concept question on why the addiction of p-aminobenzoic aid and 95% ethanol in the presence of an acid catalyst prefers to form benzocaine instead of poly(4-aminobenzamide).  I made two mechanisms about the Fischer esterification process going on but not sure if its correct.

Benzocaine

poly(4-aminobenzamide) polymer

References:

(1) Callam, Christopher; Paul, Noel M.: Synthesis of Aspirin. Organic Chemistry Lab- Chemistry 255; McGraw-Hill: New York, 2009; pp 109-129.

(2) Chemical Book Online Catalog. http://www.chemicalbook.com/ChemicalProductProperty_EN_CB1217951.htm

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