O-Tolyl ethyl xanthate

A solution of 100 g. (0.47 mole) of ethyl o-tolyl xanthate in 300 g. of ethanol is treated gradually with 100 g. of solid potassium hydroxide, and the resulting mixture is held at the boiling point for 8 hours. The mixture is diluted with water and extracted with ether. The resulting clear aqueous solution is acidified by the slow addition of dilute sulfuric acid. The mixture is steam-distilled after the addition of 3-4 g. of powdered zinc, and the organic product is separated from the distillate by ether extraction. Distillation of the ethereal solution gives an 81% yield (based on o-toluidine). o-Thiocresol boils at 106°/50 mm. and 194°/760 mm. 

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