Alkoxides
Historical document, translated for reference. It reflects medical knowledge of the 1920s–30s and is not medical advice.
Summary
Alkoxides are metallic derivatives of alcohols with the general formula R·O·Me, where Me is a monovalent metal. They are obtained by the action of metals on the corresponding alcohol in liquid or vapor state and are commonly used in organic synthesis.
Encyclopedia entry (1928–1936)
Alkoxides, salt-like metallic derivatives of alcohols (see); they correspond to the general formula R·O·Me, where Me is a monovalent metal. Alkoxides are obtained by the action of a metal on the corresponding alcohol in liquid or vapor state. Alkoxides of alkali metals are obtained most easily; among them, sodium ethylate and methylate are often used in organic synthesis for reactions of exchange of halogen atoms for methoxy-, -O·CH3, ethoxy-, -O·C2H5, groups, and for condensation, reduction and other reactions. By water or carbon dioxide of the air, alkoxides decompose into the corresponding alcohol and the hydrate of the metal hydroxide or carbonate.
Related articles
Cite this page
“Alkoxides.” Soviet Medical Encyclopedia. English translation of Bolshaya Meditsinskaya Entsiklopediya, 1st ed. (Moscow, 1928–1936), ed. N. A. Semashko. https://sovietmedicalencyclopedia.pages.dev/article/alkoxides/