Hofmann rearrangement

English

Etymology

Named after its discoverer, August Wilhelm von Hofmann.

Noun

Hofmann rearrangement (plural Hofmann rearrangements)

1. (chemistry) The organic reaction of a primary amide to a primary amine with one carbon atom less. It involves oxidation of the nitrogen followed by rearrangement of the carbonyl and nitrogen to give an isocyanate intermediate.

   Synonym: Hofmann degradation

Related terms

• Hofmann elimination