Chemical Forums

Chemistry Forums for Students => Organic Chemistry Forum => Topic started by: physstudent1 on February 27, 2009, 01:40:32 AM

Title: intramolecular hemiacetal formation?
Post by: physstudent1 on February 27, 2009, 01:40:32 AM
(https://www.chemicalforums.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg6.imageshack.us%2Fimg6%2F8743%2Ftraceaciddd.gif&hash=aebeb04e70f95b1270123164d20cc55c91f71909)

I don't understand how I can tell which side of the equilibrium the reaction will lie apparently it is different depending on if trace acid is used or if aqueous acid is used.  I am assuming trace acid is very small amounts of acid.  can someone please help me to determine if reactions like this will be on the side of the cyclic hemiacetal or the hydroxyalkanal, I dont understand how trace acid or aqueous acid will make a difference
Title: Re: intramolecular hemiacetal formation?
Post by: nj_bartel on February 27, 2009, 02:03:49 AM
I believe conc aqueous acid favors products and dilute aqueous acid favors reactants.