[tiki1102]

I have this problem on my ace organic homework.  I understand all of the steps except for the ring turning into a cyclobutane from a cyclopropane. Can some one explain how and why this happens. I know cyclopropane is generally unstable and i know how to form open a ring from an epoxide by adding hbr but this reaction doesn't have an epoxide.  Thanks for the help in advance

its the formation of  1,2 dimethyl-bromo-cyclobutane from 2 dimethyl cyclopropanol. HBr is the reagent

[discodermolide]

I have this problem on my ace organic homework.  I understand all of the steps except for the ring turning into a cyclobutane from a cyclopropane. Can some one explain how and why this happens. I know cyclopropane is generally unstable and i know how to form open a ring from an epoxide by adding hbr but this reaction doesn't have an epoxide.  Thanks for the help in advance

its the formation of  1,2 dimethyl-bromo-cyclobutane from 2 dimethyl cyclopropanol. HBr is the reagent

Have a look at this thread:
http://www.chemicalforums.com/index.php?topic=53848.0
Started by snoopylinz, yesterday!!!

[Dan]

Where's the bromine in your product?

Any idea what the first step is going to be? You have a strong acid and an alcohol...

You may also find inspiration in these threads...

http://www.chemicalforums.com/index.php?topic=53848.0

http://www.chemicalforums.com/index.php?topic=53617