Chapter 9, Problem 55P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: An explanation for the given statement that it is not possible to prepare tert-butyl phenyl ether using a Williamson ether synthesis.

Concept introduction: Ethers are the most common organic products of nucleophilic substitution reaction. They are prepared from alkyl halides and strong nucleophiles. The reaction proceeds through ${\text{S}}_{\text{N}}\text{2}$ mechanism. The highest yields of products are obtained from methyl (unhindered) and primary alkyl halides. The synthesis of ether by this route is called Williamson ether synthesis.