Overview: A video describing a two-step synthesis of phenyl-2-propanone (P2P) from acetone and bromine, followed by a Friedel–Crafts–type reaction with benzene using aluminum chloride. It emphasizes safety due to highly toxic reagents (lactic acid, bromine, hydrogen bromide) and the need for strong ventilation, protective equipment, and careful handling. Step one forms a brominated ketone intermediate; step two converts it to the target ketone via acylation, followed by hydrolysis and distillation to isolate the product. The final yield was low (about 3.1 g, ~14%), with decomposition issues noted. The video cautions against attempting such procedures, highlighting safety concerns and suggesting that alternatives (e.g., iodine) may be even riskier.
