Kinetics of oxidation of ethyl mandelate by chromic acid

Abstract

Oxidation of ethyl mandelate with chromic acid is of the first order with respect to oxidant, ester, and hydrogen ions. The thermodynamic parameters for oxidation have been evaluated. The hydrolysis under similar conditions is slower than oxidation. The main product of oxidation is Ph·CO·CO₂Et. The rate of hydrolysis and products rule out the possibility of hydrolysis before oxidation. A mechanism involving C–H bond rupture in the rate-determining step has been suggested.