Question

Explain how alcohols react with phosphorus trihalides

Answer 1

The reaction of alcohol with Phosphorus trihalides:

• The reaction of Alcohol with Phosphorous trihalides takes place by the SN1 mechanism.
• In the first step, the alcohol group$(-\mathrm{OH})$ leaves the carbon-alcohol bond because of the polarity in the bond. thus forming carbocation intermediate.

• After the formation of carbocation, the nucleophile from Phosphorous trichloride attacks the carbocation and facilitates the formation of alkyl halides.

• The same will be the reaction with Bromide and Iodide.