The reaction of 3,4-dichlorobenzyl chloride (1) with cyanide anion gives 3,4-dichlorophenylacetonitrile (2). Reaction with sodium methoxide and ethyl acetate gives α-acetoxy-3,4-dichlorophenylacetonitrile, (3). Removal of the nitrile group in the presence of sulfuric acid gives 3,4-dichlorophenylacetone (4). Oxime formation with hydroxylamine gives N-[1-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)propan-2-ylidene]hydroxylamine, (5). Reduction of the oxime completed the synthesis of 3,4-dichloroamphetamine (6).
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