Synthesis of 2-Butoxynaphthalene by an SN2 Reaction

In this video, I carry out a chemical synthesis of 2-butoxynaphthalene (from 2-naphthol) via an SN2 reaction. Theory, setup, workup, and isolation of the product are shown and discussed. Extent of reaction and purity of the product are analyzed by thin-layer chromatography (TLC).

[@samorakaos3695]

Perhaps using isopropanol as a medium can further increase the reaction efficiency. As a result, ethyl butyl ether may be formed due to ethoxy. great work. Also, if you make a video about using TLC, we would enjoy watching it.

[@stacksborrow1510]

Thank you so much for this video, It has helped alot in my labboratory work. All your work has helped me, I am forever in debt professor. Bless you!

[@Robert_Satterwhite02]

Great Video!!! Wish I could work with you some day

[@jonathankopel3532]

Taking an online organic chemistry lab is an injustice... great video! I understand what I'm doing now, lol

[@derikfrantz3141]

Great! Thanks for your comment

[@matthewyim2258]

If chemistry is like cooking, 2-naphthol is the forbidden cinnamon.

[@derikfrantz3141]

Yeah, you definitely don't want to eat it!

[@fetti_notready]

thank you

[@derikfrantz3141]

You're welcome! Glad you liked it.

[@DarkWolfEclipse]

Great video! Why was there no reaction between the ethanol with the 1-bromobutane?

[@RobsMiscellania]

If I'm not mistaken, that reaction is mediated by an ethoxide ion, and NaOH is not basic enough to make that happen for ethanol. I've read that sodium is often used to generate that alkoxide (sodium ethoxide in this case). Since there's no base strong enough in the present reaction in the video, 1-ethoxybutane will not be a product.