MathSci Problems
Intro to Aldol Condensation
Consider the reaction below
a) What is the name of this reaction?
b) Provide a mechanism for this reaction
c) What specific type of elimination is occurring in your mechanism from part b?
d) Name a driving force for this reaction
Solution:
a) Aldol condensation
b) Note that the other resonance structure for the enolate (with the negative charge on the carbon) is also acceptable in the mechanism.
c) The elimination proceeds through the “E1cB” mechanism. The E1cB elimination occurs stepwise; first the enolate is formed, then the hydroxide is kicked off. This is not the same as an E2 elimination which occurs in a single step.
d) Formation of conjugated system