Chemistry Forum

Posted: **Wed Nov 17, 2010 8:35 pm**

In lab tonight we were asked to POSTULATE the isomerization of maleic acid to fumeric acid using HCL.
Here's what I have 1.0 g of maleic acid and 10 ml of HCL.
Write a balanced chemical equation and remember to include the hydrocloric acid and heating, use the cis and trans prefixes. I have no clue but need to understand how to get the right answer.

Posted: **Thu Nov 18, 2010 9:53 pm**

Fumaric acid, not fumeric acid.
For the mechanism please check page 2 of the following document:
http://www.stevensonchem.com/AP%20Chem/ ... isomer.pdf

Posted: **Fri Nov 19, 2010 4:34 am**

Sorry I didn't pay attention to the spelling - Thanks for the link - Still do not know how to get the balanced chemical equation - I have the rest Thanks anyway

Posted: **Fri Nov 19, 2010 8:13 am**

Here is your balanced chemical equation:
HOCO-CH=CH-COOH <==> HOCO-CH=CH-COOH (maleic acid <==> fumaric acid)

HCl is a catalyst, so it doesn't formally participate in the reaction

Chemistry Forum

isomerization of maleic acid to fumeric acid using hcl help

isomerization of maleic acid to fumeric acid using hcl help