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A-LevelChemistryOrganic synthesisOct/Nov 2022Paper 1 Q371 Mark

Propyl propanoate can be synthesised in three steps using propanenitrile as the only organic starting material. In step 1, the nitrile is converted into compound X. In step 2, compound X is converted into compound Y. In step 3, compound Y is reacted with more of compound X to give propyl propanoate. CH3CH2CN →step 1 X →step 2 Y →step 3 CH3CH2CO2CH2CH2CH3 Which reagents are suitable for carrying out step 1 and step 2? [Table 37.1: step 1 and step 2 reagents]

Astep 1 HCl(aq) step 2 conc. H2SO4
Bstep 1 HCl(aq) step 2 LiAlH4
Cstep 1 NaOH(aq) step 2 conc. H2SO4
Dstep 1 NaOH(aq) step 2 NaBH4

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The correct answer is B. This question tests the candidate's understanding of organic synthesis within the Chemistrysyllabus. The examiner's mark scheme requires...

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Common mistake: 62% of candidates selected the distractor because they confused... The examiner specifically designed this question to test whether students can differentiate between... To secure full marks, candidates must demonstrate...

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About This A-Level Chemistry Question

This multiple-choice question appeared in the Cambridge A-Level Chemistry (9701) Oct/Nov 2022 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2. It tests the topic of Organic synthesis and is worth 1 mark.

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