Studies in solvolysis of some simple alkyl trifluoroacetates.

Abstract

The work presented in this thesis, deals with the neutral hydrolysis of simple alkyl trifluoroacetates. The alkyl trifluoroacetates CF₃COOR [R = CH₃, -CD₃; -CH₂CH₃, -CD₂CD₃, -CH(CH₃)₂, -CH(CD₃)₂ and -C(CH₃)₃] have been synthesized. The rates of hydrolysis of these trifluoroacetates have been measured at various temperatures, by a conductimetric method, and the thermodynamic parameters (ΔH⁺ and ΔS⁺) evaluated. Secondary deuterium isotope effects have been determined. The results have been interpreted in the light of other mechanistic information concerning the hydrolysis of simple haloacetates.