Methanol → Methyl 3-(methylsulfonyl)benzoate

Participants

Reaction Steps

To a solution of 3-methylsulfonylbenzoic acid (10 g, 50 mmol) in anhydrous methanol (100 mL) was added conc. sulfuric acid (10 mL). The mixture was refluxed for 4 hours and then concentrated to one-third volume. Water (200 mL) was added, and the mixture was extracted with diethyl ether. The organic extract was washed with 10% sodium carbonate solution, and dried over Na2SO4. After concentration, 8.6 g (81%) of methyl 3-methylsulfonylbenzoate was obtained.

Provenance & Evidence