[jaepp17]

Suggest a mechanism for the alpha-halogenation of an acid bromide in the Hell-Volhard-Zelinsky reaction. a) Show how this mechanism accounts for the regioselectivity of the halogenation. b) How do you account for the fact that it the acid halide and not the acid itself that undergoes this reaction?


O man am I having a hard time with this. I have tried several days to solve this and I'm completely lost with this one. Any help will the appreciated.