Under what conditions can an E2 elimination reaction give the non-Zaitsev product?

Abstract

This activity introduces students to the concept that a non-Zaitsev elimination product can be formed in an E2 elimination reactions if a sterically hindered "bulky" base is used.  Upon completion of this activity, students should be able to apply the concept of steric hindrance to correctly predict the products of E2 elimination reactions with different bases.

Level: Undergraduate

Setting: Classroom

Activity Type: Learning Cycle

Discipline: Chemistry

Course: Organic Chemistry

Keywords: elimination, alkenes, Zaitsev, Hoffmann, E2