Hi everyone. I have yet another hairbrain idea question that Im sure has been thought of b4 but hey, you never know...
I know there has been talk of taking 3,4 Methylenedioxy-1-Bromobenzene and making a Grignard adduct from it with Magnesium, then reacting this with 1-Bromoacetone to produce MDP-2Pdirectly.
I am wondering...If one could react the MDP-Br mentioned above, WITHOUT making the grignard, directly with acetone in the presence of a weak base, like sodium carbonate or acetate maybe. I would hope it would proceed like thus:
The Br attacks a hydrogen on the acetone, producing HBr and MDP-2P. There are only two "sets" of hydrogens for it to attack anyway: either of the methyl groups at position 1 or 3 of acetone, and obviously its symmetrical, and either will produce the same product. (MDP-2P)
Now I know that HBr has a tendency to really mess with the methylenedioxy ring, thats what the weak base is for, to neutralize the acid, but not a strong base like NaOH because you dont wanna risk it reacting directly with the MDP-Br to produce a phenol.
I just wonder if this little shortcut could be taken or will it spell utter disaster and a polymerized goop in the flask? Any and all thoughts on the subject are much appreciated. And btw, if anyone is wondering, I will answer in advance: YES, I AM trying to cut a corner in this synthesis, to NOT have to make the grignard or the Bromoacetone derivative would be wonderful. This would simplify a already known reaction, making it more valuable. Anyway, enough of my rambling and on with the discussion! Thanx again.
Of COURSE we don't know what we're doing! That's why it's called research! (boom...)