The synthesis of ibuprofen from 2-methylpropylbenzene isobutylbenzene and carbon dioxide can be achieved through a series of reactions. Here is a step-by-step reaction mechanism for this process:1. Friedel-Crafts Acylation:In the first step, 2-methylpropylbenzene isobutylbenzene undergoes Friedel-Crafts acylation with acetyl chloride CH3COCl in the presence of a Lewis acid catalyst, such as aluminum chloride AlCl3 . This reaction results in the formation of 2- 4-isobutylphenyl propanoyl chloride.2. Hydrolysis:The 2- 4-isobutylphenyl propanoyl chloride is then hydrolyzed in the presence of water and a base, such as sodium hydroxide NaOH , to form 2- 4-isobutylphenyl propionic acid, which is also known as -methyl-4- 2-methylpropyl benzeneacetic acid.3. Kolbe-Schmitt Reaction:The next step is the Kolbe-Schmitt reaction, which involves the carboxylation of the aromatic ring. In this reaction, the 2- 4-isobutylphenyl propionic acid reacts with carbon dioxide CO2 in the presence of a strong base, such as sodium hydroxide NaOH , under high temperature and pressure. This leads to the formation of sodium 2- 4-isobutylphenyl propionate.4. Acidification:Finally, the sodium 2- 4-isobutylphenyl propionate is acidified using a strong acid, such as hydrochloric acid HCl , to form ibuprofen 2- 4-isobutylphenyl propionic acid .In summary, the synthesis of ibuprofen from 2-methylpropylbenzene and carbon dioxide involves Friedel-Crafts acylation, hydrolysis, Kolbe-Schmitt reaction, and acidification. The key reagents and catalysts involved in this process include acetyl chloride, aluminum chloride, sodium hydroxide, and hydrochloric acid.