Final answer:
To prepare meso-2,3-butanediol from trans-2-butene, react it with benzylidene-2,2-bis(oxymethyl)propionic acid to form an intermediate compound. Then, undergo desilylation to obtain the final product.
Step-by-step explanation:
To prepare meso-2,3-butanediol (meso-CH3CH(OH)CH(OH)CH3) from trans-2-butene, you would need to follow several steps. First, trans-2-butene will react with benzylidene-2,2-bis(oxymethyl)propionic acid to form an intermediate compound. Then, this intermediate compound will undergo desilylation to obtain the final product, meso-2,3-butanediol.
The specific reagents and conditions for each step are provided in the given reference information. The overall reaction is shown in Scheme 2 of the reference. It is important to note that these reactions require specific knowledge and expertise in organic chemistry, and should only be attempted under the guidance of a trained professional.