Methanol → Methyl 4-(4-fluorophenyl)-4-oxobutanoate

Participants

Reaction Steps

A solution of 3-(p-fluorobenzoyl)propionic acid (58.8 g.) in anhydrous methanol (250 ml.) was treated with concentrated sulphuric acid (3.2 ml.) and the mixture heated at reflux temperature for 10 hours. It was then concentrated to a volume of 100 ml., cooled and diluted with ice-water. The resultant solid was collected and crystallised from ligroin to yield the ester (59.7 g.), m.p. 48°-50°C.

Provenance & Evidence