video tutorial Propiophenone synthesis from benzene and propionyl chloride with James Earl Jones

Summary

• Objective: synthesize propiophenone via Friedel–Crafts acylation of benzene with propionyl chloride using aluminum chloride as catalyst.
• Approach: prepare a dry reaction setup, control moisture and atmosphere, and add reagents gradually while maintaining low temperature; hydrolyze and neutralize residual acid after reaction.
• Purification: extract organic layer, perform steam/distillation, dry the product, and conduct a second distillation with temperature monitoring.
• Product characteristics: propiophenone – a pale yellow oily liquid with a distinctive aroma.
• Yield: approximately mid-60% relative to starting propionyl chloride (about 14 g from the reported amount); practical yield may vary with scale.
• Safety notes: propionyl chloride is toxic and emits corrosive HCl; ensure adequate ventilation and moisture protection throughout the procedure.