MCAT Organic Chemistry Question 111: Answer and Explanation

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Question: 111

6. Carboxylic acids can be reacted in one step to form all of the following compounds EXCEPT:

  • A. esters.
  • B. amides.
  • C. alkenes.
  • D. alcohols.

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

Carboxylic acids cannot be converted into alkenes in one step. Esters, choice (A), are formed in nucleophilic acyl substitution reactions with alcohols. Amides, choice (B), are formed by nucleophilic acyl substitution reactions with ammonia. Alcohols, choice (D), may be formed using a variety of reducing agents. To form alkenes, carboxylic acids may be reduced to alcohols, which can then be transformed into alkenes by elimination in a second step.

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