Answer :
DEET can be synthesized using several methods such as catalytic hydrogenation, Grignard reagents, acylation, and condensation reactions. Each method plays a specific role in the formation of the chemical bond or functional group vital for the final DEET structure, such as the formation of octyl ethanoate. Therefore, option a. Utilizing catalytic hydrogenation is the correct answer.
There are several alternative methods for synthesizing DEET, an effective insect repellent:
- Utilizing catalytic hydrogenation involves the addition of hydrogen to an organic compound in the presence of a catalyst. This method can be used to reduce certain functional groups that may be present in an intermediate leading to DEET synthesis.
- Using Grignard reagents is a common practice in organic synthesis. In the context of synthesizing compounds like DEET, a Grignard reagent could add to a carbonyl compound such as an ester or aldehyde to form a new carbon-carbon bond.
- Employing acylation refers to the introduction of an acyl group onto another molecule. This is a crucial step in the synthesis of many organic compounds including DEET, as it can be used to form ester or amide bonds.
- Utilizing condensation reactions are reactions where two molecules join with the loss of a small molecule, commonly water. These reactions are pivotal in forming various bond types, including carbon-carbon bonds, which could be applied in the synthesis of DEET.
An example using these methods is the synthesis of octyl ethanoate, a potential intermediate in DEET synthesis, which could involve a Grignard reaction where a Grignard reagent reacts with an ester. Another route could involve the acid-catalyzed condensation of octanol with acetic acid, or related acyl derivatives, to form octyl ethanoate through esterification. Therefore, option a. Utilizing catalytic hydrogenation is the correct answer.
