Preparation of alcohols from alkenes involves the electrophilic attack on alkene carbon atom. The mechanism of this reaction involves the following three steps:

Question

Preparation of alcohols from alkenes involves the electrophilic attack on alkene carbon atom. Explain its mechanism.

Philoid · Accepted Answer

Step 1) Protonation of alkene and formation of carbocation

Here, carbocation formation takes place by the electrophilic attack of H₃0⁺ on alkene carbon atom and water molecule is released.

STEP 2) Nucleophilic attack of water

Step 3) Deprotonation occurs and an alcohol is formed. H₃0⁺ is released.