NaOPr

NaOPr, also known as sodium propoxide, is an organometallic compound with the chemical formula CH3CH2CH2ONa. It is the sodium salt of propanol, a secondary alcohol. NaOPr is a strong base and a nucleophile, making it useful in various organic synthesis reactions. It is typically prepared by reacting sodium metal or sodium hydride with propanol. The reaction of sodium metal with propanol produces hydrogen gas as a byproduct, while the reaction with sodium hydride generates hydrogen gas as well. The physical appearance of NaOPr is usually a white solid, although it can sometimes be encountered as a solution in organic solvents. It is hygroscopic, meaning it readily absorbs moisture from the air, and it should be handled under inert conditions to maintain its purity and reactivity. NaOPr finds applications as a catalyst or reagent in reactions such as deprotonation, alkoxylation, and in the formation of ethers and esters. Its strong basicity allows it to abstract protons from relatively weak acidic compounds, facilitating further chemical transformations.