Methanol → methyl 6-methyl-1H-indole-2-carboxylate

Participants

Reaction Steps

A solution of 6-methylindole-2-carboxylic acid (38.2 g.) in methanol (400 ml.) containing phosphorus oxychloride (5 ml.) was heated under reflux for 4 hours and then evaporated. The residue was dissolved in chloroform and the solution was washed successively with water and sodium bicarbonate solution and then dried (Na2SO4). Evaporation of the solvent gave a solid which was crystallized from methanol to give 6-methylindole-2-carboxylic acid methyl ester (28.1 g.), m.p. 128°-131° C.

Provenance & Evidence