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+ Chemical reactions
+ Biochemistry
+ Acids
+ Peroxides
+ Chemistry
+ Organic chemistry
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Kostas Ampatzis

What is the difference between acid and base catalyzed opening of epoxides?

Allan Emery  Follow

OH- opening is an SN2 reaction and gives a trans diol. Acid catalyzed hydrolysis proceeds thru a carbocation intermediate and gives mixed stereochemistry.

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David Bradbury  Follow

It will open on the more highly substituted end, which provides the more stable carbocation.

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