Question

Oxaloacetic acid (2-ketosuccinic acid) is a very important intermediate in metabolism. The compound is involved in the citric acid cycle for energy production within the cell. However, the compound is unstable and slowly decomposes spontaneously. Draw the decomposition products.

Answer 1

Answer:

Carbon dioxide and acetoacetic acid

Explanation:

Oxaloacetic acid is a β-keto acid. It decarboxylates readily via a six-membered cyclic transition state.

The initial products are carbon dioxide and the enol of a ketone.

The enol is unstable and rapidly tautomerizes to the more stable keto form — acetoacetic acid.

Answer 2

Pyruvic acid and carbon dioxide were formed when oxyaloacetic acid decomposes, and the further discussion can be defined as follows:

Oxaloacetic acid:

• As oxyaloacetic acid first, pyruvic acid and carbon dioxide, are produced.
• This $\bold{\beta}$-keto acid is oxaloacetic acid contains. Its six-membered cyclic transition state allows this one to decarboxylate easily.
• Carbon dioxide as well as the enol of a ketone are the first by-products.
• This enol is unstable and tautomerizes to the more stable keto form of acetoacetic acid very quickly.

Learn more about the Oxaloacetic acid here:

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