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The Diels-Alder reaction between anthracene and maleic anhydride proceeds as follows:
Reaction Equation:
[Image of the reaction equation, showing anthracene and maleic anhydride reacting to form the Diels-Alder adduct].
Solvent Use:
- Ethyl acetate and hexanes are commonly used as solvents for crystallization and purification of the Diels-Alder adduct. They help dissolve the adduct at higher temperatures and allow it to recrystallize upon cooling, resulting in pure crystals.
- Xylene is often used as a reaction solvent, meaning it dissolves the reactants and facilitates the reaction. However, in this case, it's not considered a solvent for the Diels-Alder reaction if added
before
heating. This is because the reaction likely occurs at a higher temperature, and xylene would only serve as a solvent at that elevated temperature.
In summary, ethyl acetate and hexanes are used for purification, while xylene is a reaction solvent if added before heating.