in the diels alder reaction the petroleum ether was added to

in the diels alder reaction the petroleum ether was added to a COOLED solution of maleic anhydride and ethyl acetate. What was the purpose for an ICE COD solution? thanks

Solution

The ice cold solution is needed as the reaction is exothermic and it takes place spontaneously at room temperature so we need to have ice codl solution to prevent reaction going too fast.