Claisen
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Hofmann degradation and Amide hydrolysis
In Hofmann degradation reaction of amides, the base employed (OH-) abstracts a proton from the -NH2 group where as in the base catalysed hydrolysis of
amides, the amide undergoes a nucleophilic attack by the base.
What actually governs the reaction of OH-?
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madscientist
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With amides, deprotonation doesn't yield a reaction, hence it's unimportant. With the Hofmann rearrangement, deprotonation is part of the reaction
pathway. Also, the bromine on the nitrogen helps stabilize the anion, making deprotonation more favorable.
I weep at the sight of flaming acetic anhydride.
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Claisen
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I did not understand your first sentence.
The reaction initiates only after the deprotonation i.e. it is the first step, why is it unimportant?
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madscientist
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Crap - I meant to say "With hydrolysis of amides..." Sorry! 
I weep at the sight of flaming acetic anhydride.
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Claisen
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Thanks for your help!!
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