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How can benzyl chloride and ammonia be reacted to synthesize phenylalanine, and what are the specific conditions (such as temperature and pressure) required for this reaction to occur?

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To synthesize phenylalanine from benzyl chloride and ammonia, you can follow the Strecker amino acid synthesis. However, you will need an additional reagent, namely an aldehyde or a ketone. In the case of phenylalanine synthesis, you will need benzaldehyde. Here is the step-by-step process:1. React benzaldehyde with ammonia to form an imine intermediate.   Benzaldehyde + NH3  C6H5CH=NH2. React the imine intermediate with benzyl chloride  as a cyanide source  to form an -aminonitrile.   C6H5CH=NH + ClCH2CN  C6H5CH NH2 CN3. Hydrolyze the -aminonitrile to obtain phenylalanine.   C6H5CH NH2 CN + 2H2O  C6H5CH NH2 COOH + NH3Specific conditions for the reaction:1. Temperature: The reaction can be carried out at room temperature  25C  or slightly above, depending on the reagents' solubility and reaction rate.2. Pressure: Atmospheric pressure is suitable for this reaction.3. Solvent: A polar solvent like water or a mixture of water and an organic solvent  e.g., ethanol  can be used.4. Catalyst: An acid or base catalyst can be used to speed up the reaction. For example, a mild base like sodium cyanide  NaCN  can be used to facilitate the formation of the imine intermediate and the -aminonitrile.Please note that benzyl chloride is a toxic and lachrymatory compound, and the reaction should be performed in a well-ventilated area or a fume hood. Additionally, cyanide compounds are highly toxic, and proper safety precautions should be taken when handling them.

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