Aldol Condensation of Acetaldehyde

2CH3CHO → CH3CH(OH)CH2CHO

Übersicht

Two molecules of acetaldehyde combine in a base-catalyzed aldol reaction to form 3-hydroxybutanal (aldol). The alpha-hydrogen of one molecule is abstracted by base to form an enolate, which attacks the carbonyl of the second molecule. Dehydration can follow to give an alpha,beta-unsaturated aldehyde (crotonaldehyde).

Alltägliches Beispiel

The aldol reaction is one of the most powerful carbon-carbon bond forming reactions in synthetic chemistry, used to build complex molecules.

Industrielle Bedeutung

Aldol reactions are used industrially to produce 2-ethylhexanol (plasticizer alcohol), pentaerythritol (explosives), and pharmaceutical intermediates.

Eigenschaften

Typ
Organic
Reversibel
Ja
Energie
Exotherm
ΔH
-22,0 kJ/mol
Katalysator
NaOH (base catalyst)

Verwandte Reaktionen

Epoxidation of Alkenes (mCPBA) Swern Oxidation Oxidation of Secondary Alcohol to Ketone E2 Elimination (Dehydrohalogenation) Claisen Condensation (Ethyl Acetate) Kolbe Electrolysis Baeyer-Villiger Oxidation Beckmann Rearrangement (Cyclohexanone Oxime) Catalytic Hydrogenation of Ethylene Dehydration of Ethanol

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Aldol Condensation of Acetaldehyde?
The balanced equation is: 2CH₃CHO → CH₃CH(OH)CH₂CHO.
What type of reaction is Aldol Condensation of Acetaldehyde?
Aldol Condensation of Acetaldehyde is a organic reaction. It is reversible under certain conditions.
Is Aldol Condensation of Acetaldehyde exothermic or endothermic?
Aldol Condensation of Acetaldehyde is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -22.0 kJ/mol.
What conditions are needed for Aldol Condensation of Acetaldehyde?
This reaction requires a catalyst (NaOH (base catalyst)).