Convert Propene to Propan-1-ol

Answer:

In order to convert Propene to propan-1-ol, Anti Markovnikov’s addition is required. In Anti Markovnikov’s addition, when the alkene reacts with hydrogen halide, hydrogen addition occurs to the carbon atom of the double bond which is bonded to the least number of hydrogen atoms whereas the halide addition occurs to the other carbon atom of the double bond.

In the absence of peroxides, the aforementioned reaction occurs via an electrophilic addition mechanism. Whereas, in the presence of peroxides, a different mechanism occurs which is the free radical chain reaction resulting in the anti-Markovnikov addition.

For the reaction of propene with hydrogen bromide to result in Anti Markovnikov’s addition, the reaction of an alkene with hydrogen halide must proceed in the presence of peroxide. The resultant alkyl halide is further reacted with KOH and then heated to finally produce propan-1-ol.

The reaction chemistry is as follows:

CH₃CH=CH₂ + HBr → CH₃CH₂CH₂Br

(PROPENE)

CH₃CH₂CH₂Br +KOH(aq) → CH₃CH₂CH₂OH

(propan-1-ol)

Propan-1-ol can also be produced through the hydroboration oxidation reaction. In this, Alkene reacts with diborane (BH₃)₂ with propene to produce trialkyl boranes which are then oxidized to propan-1-ol by peroxide in the presence of NaOH.