Welcome to the dehydration of methylcyclohexanols page!
We are looking for collaborators to study this fascinating reaction.
Summary of Procedure:
The dehydration of methylcyclohexanols is a variation of a popular organic chemistry lab.
The procedure is rather simple, but the diversity of products formed brings up some interesting discussion topics relating to the validity of the textbook understanding or E1 and E2 elimination reactions.
Positive aspects of this experiment:
+ This simple dehydration reaction with hydrodistillation is a good introductory synthesis lab.
Neutral (may be positive or negative) aspects of this experiment:
± Phosphoric acid has been the choice of mineral acid over the years. Perhaps it is less odorous and less dangerous than other options.
Negative aspects of this experiment:
- There is potential for loss of product during the liquid-liquid extraction and drying steps.
Inquiry & Extension Ideas:
● What will changing the reaction conditions do to the product distribution? In 2008 some student performed a 10 minute reflux before hydrodistilling off the alkenes.
● How will changing the acid affect product distribution?
Chromatograms/Spectra Links:
Student Comments:
Photo Gallery:
Description of Collaborative Project:
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