Which mechanistic step in the acid-catalyzed dehydration of 3,3-dimethyl-2-butanol is the rate determining step?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The rate determining step in the acid-catalyzed dehydration of 3,3-dimethyl-2-butanol is the protonation of the molecule, which leads to the formation of a carbocation intermediate. This is shown in step B, where the protonation of the oxygen atom leads to the formation of the oxonium ion intermediate. The subsequent steps involve the loss of a water molecule and the deprotonation of the carbocation, which are relatively fast steps compared to the initial protonation step. Therefore, step B is the rate determining step in this mechanism.

Which Mechanistic Step in the Acid-Catalyzed Dehydration of 3,3-Dimethyl-2-Butanol Is