B Preparation of Methyl L-Phenylalaninate Hydrochloride

Purpose To demonstrate the protection of the carboxylic acid group of an a-amino acid by forming a methyl ester. 

Thionyl chloride is a volatile and corrosive chemical that undergoes rapid reaction with water and atmospheric moisture to produce sulfur dioxide and hydrogen chloride, both of which are also corrosive. Wear latex gloves when handling this chemical and do not breathe it or allow it to come in contact with your skin. If contact occurs, immediately flood the affected area with cold water and then rinse with 5% sodium bicarbonate solution. Dispense thionyl chloride only at a hood and minimize its exposure to atmospheric moisture by keeping the bottle tightly closed when not in use. 

This experiment should be performed in a hood if possible. 

Diethyl ether is exfreme/y flammable and volatile, and its vapors can easily travel several feet along the bench top or the floor and then be ignited. Consequently, be certain there are no open fiames anywhere in the iaboratory whenever you are working with it. Use a flameless heating source whenever heating is required. 

Preparation Sign in at www.cengage.com/login to answer Pre-Lab Exercises, access videos, and read the MSDSs for the chemicals used or produced in this procedure. Review Sections 2.10. 2.11. 2.17. and 2.22. 

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