Which of the following describes the products formed by the dehydration of cis-2-methylcyclopentanol?
A) The only product is 1-methylcyclopentene.
B) The only product is 3-methylcyclopentene.
C) The major product is 1-methylcyclopentene and the minor product is 3-methylcyclopentene.
D) The major product is 3-methylcyclopentene and the minor product is 1-methylcyclopentene.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The dehydration of cis-2-methylcyclopentanol can proceed via two different pathways, leading to the formation of either 1-methylcyclopentene or 3-methylcyclopentene. The major product is 1-methylcyclopentene because the transition state leading to its formation is more stable than the transition state leading to the formation of 3-methylcyclopentene.

Which of the Following Describes the Products Formed by the Dehydration