Phenolic esters. Part I. Rate of hydrolysis of phenyl, p-tolyl, and p-chlorophenyl hydrogen succinate

Abstract

The rates of hydrolysis of phenyl, p-tolyl, and p-chlorophenyl hydrogen succinate are determined at different pH values and temperatures. They follow the first-order rate equation, and decrease in the order p-chlorophenyl > phenyl > p-tolyl. The rate also decreases with decrease of pH, reaches a minimum at pH 2, then increases gradually and remains constant between pH 5·8 and 7·0. A mechanism involving the intermediate formation of succinic anhydride is discussed.