a-derivative-of-hydroxyvaleric-acid-forms-a-cyclic-ester-lactone-when-it-is-mixe

Question

5-hydroxy-3-methylpentanoic acid forms a cyclic ester (lactone) when it is mixed with a trace amount of acid.

Structure of 5-hydroxy-3-methylpentanoic acid showing its cyclic ester form.

(i) Write the structure of the lactone.

(ii) Suggest a plausible mechanism for its formation.

Accepted Answer

Another mechanism diagram showing lactone formation with detailed steps.

Answer

Mechanism illustrating the formation of a lactone from a cyclic structure.

Answer

Alternative mechanism for lactone formation with different reaction steps.

Answer

Final mechanism diagram for lactone formation with reaction intermediates.

5-hydroxy-3-methylpentanoic acid forms a cyclic ester (lactone) when it is mixed with a trace amount of acid.(i) Write the structure of the lactone. (ii) Suggest a plausible mechanism for its formation.