Octet / Reactions
Strecker Synthesis
Strecker Synthesis (Addition.) Converts CC=O to CC(N)C(=O)O using NH₃, HCN, then H₃O⁺.
Addition
Reaction details
Name
Strecker Synthesis
Type
Addition
Starting Material
CC=O
Product
CC(N)C(=O)O
Reagents
NH₃
HCN
then H₃O⁺
Mechanism
- Smiles
CC=O
- Description
Aldehyde
- Smiles
CC=N
- Description
Imine forms with ammonia
- Smiles
CC(N)C#N
- Description
Cyanide adds to give α-aminonitrile
- Smiles
CC(N)C(=O)O
- Description
Hydrolysis of nitrile gives α-amino acid
Tips
Classic amino acid synthesis
Aldehyde → α-Amino acid
Racemic product (non-stereoselective)
One of oldest named reactions (1850)
Related Reactions
gabriel-synthesis
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