Which of the following represents the first mechanistic step in the oxidation reaction shown below?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The first mechanistic step in the oxidation reaction involves the transfer of one electron from the reactant to the oxidant, generating a radical intermediate. Choice B shows this step with the formation of a carbon-centered radical intermediate (•CH2CH2CO2H) and a pentavalent nitrogen species (NO2+). Choices A and C show a proton transfer step and choice D shows a radical rearrangement step, which occur after the first mechanistic step.

Which of the Following Represents the First Mechanistic Step in the Oxidation