Curtius Rearrangement: Acyl Azides → Isocyanates → Amines/Carbamates

Learn the Curtius rearrangement: acyl azide formation, thermolysis to isocyanate (N2 leaves), and trapping to make amines or carbamates.

• Reaction: RCO–N3 → RNCO → amine derivative
• What it does: Converts carboxylic acid derivatives to amines (one carbon retained)
• Typical reagents: Acyl azide precursor, heat; then H2O/ROH/RNH2 trapping
• Key intermediate: Isocyanate
• Driving force: Loss of N2 gas
• Exam type: Rearrangements
• Exam type: Synthesis planning