Cycle of Walden Inversions

Walden inversion is the conversion of the (+)-form of an optically active compound to the (─)-form of the same or different compound or vice-versa.


Inversion of configuration typically happens in the presence of a strong reagent, viz., Phosphorus pentachloride or Potassium hydroxide while retention of configuration takes place by a mild reagent like moist Silver oxide.



Walden cycle: Click/tap to enlarge the image

SN2 = Substitution nucleophilic bimolecular, TS = Transition state

Interesting inversions❓ Let Chemaficionado know in the comments below or at mychemistryhomework@gmail.com

References:

(1)    Brown, C.; Ford, M. Higher Level Chemistry, 2nd ed.; Pearson Education: Harlow, Essex, 2014.

(2)    Ncert. Chemistry : Textbook for Class XI - Part.II; National Council Of Educational Research And Training: New Delhi.

(3)    Graham, T. W.; Fryhle, C. B.; Snyder, S. A. Organic Chemistry.; Hoboken, Nj John Wiley Et Sons, Inc, 2016.

(4)    Wikipedia Contributors. Walden inversion. Wikipedia.

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