Lactone Formation: Intramolecular Esterification: Mechanism + Exam Traps

Form lactones from hydroxy acids via intramolecular Fischer esterification (acid-catalyzed).

• Reaction: Lactone Formation: Intramolecular Esterification
• What it does: Form lactones from hydroxy acids via intramolecular Fischer esterification (acid-catalyzed).
• Typical reagents: H+, heat, remove water
• Key intermediate: Tetrahedral intermediate
• Driving force: Formation of more stable bonds / products
• Exam type: Predict major product
• Exam type: Mechanism choice