The mechanism of catalysis in the Schotten-Baumann reaction can be understood through the following steps:
1. Activation of Acyl Chloride: An acid catalyst can protonate the carbonyl oxygen of the acyl chloride, increasing its electrophilicity and facilitating nucleophilic attack by the amine. 2. Nucleophilic Attack: The amine attacks the carbonyl carbon of the acyl chloride, leading to the formation of a tetrahedral intermediate. 3. Deprotonation and Product Formation: A base catalyst can deprotonate the intermediate, leading to the release of the amide product and hydrochloric acid. The catalyst can then be regenerated in the process.
