How is 3-(2,5-Difluorophenyl)-3-oxopropanenitrile (CAS: 71682-96-7) typically synthesized?

3-(2,5-Difluorophenyl)-3-oxopropanenitrile is synthesized through a multi-step process involving the formation of an ester followed by a nitrile formation. The key steps include the conversion of a 2,5-difluorophenyl ester to the corresponding nitrile using a catalyst like sodium hydride. The process typically yields 80-90% in terms of purity and yield, with high selectivity for the desired product.