Aldol condensation and addition Flashcards
(8 cards)
What undergoes aldol addition?
Two molecules of an aldehyde or ketone that have alpha hydrogen atoms.
How does the mechanism for aldol addition work?
The base (OH-) removes an alpha H forming an enolate ion. The ion attacks the carbonyl carbon of the other molecule.
What is formed from aldol addition?
A beta hydroxy carbonyl compound.
What are the conditions required for aldol addition?
Basic aqueous conditions at room temperature.
How is aldol condensation different to aldol addition?
There is an extra step. The beta hydroxy compound undergoes dehydration.
What is the resulting product of the beta hydroxy compound undergoing dehydration?
Forms an alpha beta unsaturated carbonyl compound.
What are the conditions required for aldol condensation?
Requires heating under basic conditions (to drive off the water).
How is the outcome of condensation different than addition?
The reaction goes further, forming a C=C bond in conjugation with the carbonyl group.
