Abstract:

Heating the reaction mixture of diphenylmethanol and acetonitrile for 2 h in the presence of 5% (molar ratio) iodine or p-toluenesulfonic acid as the catalyst can yield the target product N-benzyl acetamide in approximately 85% isolated yield. Based on the concept of green chemistry, this innovative experiment integrates basic knowledge and theories such as the properties of alcohols, carbocation theory, organic Brønsted and Lewis acid-base theories, and the Ritter reaction. Additionally, knowledge regarding basic experimental operations such as thin layer chromatography (TLC), recrystallization, extraction filtration, drying and melting point determination can be strengthened by this experiment. The scientific research methods of product analysis and characterization such as gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance, and the basic scientific research rules such as the single-variable method are also employed in this experiment. Notably, it takes approximately 3–4 h to complete the experimental process, the cost of reagents is approximately 1.2 yuan per-person, and it is convenient to carry out the control experiments in groups for practical teaching. In summary, the basic knowledge and theories mentioned in the textbook and the frontier of scientific research can be covered in this innovative experiment, while meeting the requirements for "high-order, innovation and challenge" of the new curriculum reform.

Key words: Amide, Ritter reaction, Atomic economy