[amcavoy]

I need to find the a synthesis of (S)-2-phenylpropanenitrile from (R)-1-bromo-1-phenylethane.  I was able to do something similar to this, but it's not the same.  I have included this as an attached image.  Is my idea on the right track or do I need to do something completely different?

Thank you.

[agrobert]

You can synthesize (S)-2-phenylpropanenitrile from (R)-1-bromo-1-phenylethane using Kolbe Nitrile Synthesis

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kolbe_nitrile_synthesis

http://www.organic-chemistry.org/namedreactions/kolbe-nitrile-synthesis.shtm

You need a polar solvent that will solvate K⁺ to allow ^-CN to attack.  I don't how well S_N2 displacement will occur because you are attacking a benzylic carbon.  It is possible to form phenyl ethene by E₂ elimination.