(i) Reimer-Tiemann reaction:
This reaction involves the conversion of a phenol to an aldehyde using chloroform in the presence of a base. The mechanism involves the formation of a dichlorocarbene intermediate, which attacks the phenol ring. The resulting adduct is then hydrolyzed to yield the salicylaldehyde.
Equation:
[Image of Reimer-Tiemann Reaction Mechanism would be included here. This is a complex multi-step reaction and cannot be effectively represented with a single concise equation. A detailed mechanism with all intermediates is required for a complete explanation.]
(ii) Williamson ether synthesis:
This reaction involves the synthesis of an ether from an alkyl halide and an alkoxide ion. The alkoxide ion acts as a nucleophile and attacks the alkyl halide, displacing the halide ion.
Equation:
RO⁻ + R'X → ROR' + X⁻
Where: