Dehydration Reaction of 4-Methylcyclohexanol: The Role of Phosphoric Acid

Why was phosphoric acid necessary in the dehydration reaction of 4-Methylcyclohexanol?

A. Phosphoric acid is also a reactant

B. Phosphoric acid was used as a solvent

C. Phosphoric acid acts as a catalyst

Correct answer:

C. Phosphoric acid acts as a catalyst

Phosphoric acid is necessary in the dehydration reaction of 4-Methylcyclohexanol as it acts as a catalyst, facilitating the removal of water and formation of the desired product, 4-Methylcyclohexene.

During the dehydration reaction of 4-Methylcyclohexanol, phosphoric acid is used as a catalyst. A catalyst is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process. Phosphoric acid helps in the removal of water from 4-Methylcyclohexanol to form 4-Methylcyclohexene.

Phosphoric acid acts as a proton donor during the reaction, facilitating the formation of a carbocation intermediate. The carbocation intermediate then undergoes elimination, resulting in the formation of the desired product, 4-Methylcyclohexene.

Additionally, phosphoric acid helps in maintaining the acidity of the reaction mixture, which is crucial for the reaction to proceed efficiently. It provides the necessary conditions for the reaction to occur at a faster rate.

Find more information about the necessity of phosphoric acid in the dehydration reaction of 4-methylcyclohexanol here.