Why are beta -lactams, such as penicillins and cephalosporins, unusually reactiv

Question

Why are beta-lactams, such as penicillins and cephalosporins, unusually reactive amides?

Their enhanced reactivity is due to a radical chain mechanism.

Their enhanced reactivity is due to the relief of considerable ring strain upon opening the four-membered ring.

Their enhanced reactivity is due to the absence of steric effects on the amide.

Their enhanced reactivity is due to the ruthenium-catalyzed metathesis reaction

Their enhanced reactivity is due to a radical chain mechanism.

Their enhanced reactivity is due to the relief of considerable ring strain upon opening the four-membered ring.

Their enhanced reactivity is due to the absence of steric effects on the amide.

Their enhanced reactivity is due to the ruthenium-catalyzed metathesis reaction

Explanation / Answer

beta-lactams, such as penicillins and cephalosporins, unusually reactive amides because their enhanced reactivity is due to a radical chain mechanism.

Due to ring strain, ?-lactams are more reactive to hydrolysis conditions than are linear amides or larger lactams

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