Final answer:
The common peroxyacid used for the epoxidation of an alkene is m-CPBA. It transforms alkenes into epoxides, which are highly reactive due to angle strain and serve as important intermediates in organic synthesis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The commonly used peroxyacid for the epoxidation of an alkene is m-chloroperoxybenzoic acid (m-CPBA). Peroxyacids are a group of organic compounds containing an acidic -OOH group. Epoxidation is a reaction where an alkene is transformed into an epoxide, a three-membered cyclic ether. Epoxides, such as 2-ethyl-3-methyloxirane, are highly reactive due to angle strain, making them important intermediates in organic synthesis and useful sterilizing agents due to their fast reaction with microorganisms.
Other examples of peroxyacids include hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), which is a simpler oxidizing agent, and benzoyl peroxide, commonly used in acne medication. Peroxyacids like these are effective because they release reactive oxygen species that damage cellular components, ultimately leading to cell death.