Aldol Condensation of Acetaldehyde

2CH₃CHO → CH₃CH(OH)CH₂CHO

Overview

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).

Everyday Example

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

Industrial Importance

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

Properties

Type: Organic
Reversible: Yes
Energy: Exothermic
ΔH: -22.0 kJ/mol
Catalyst: NaOH (base catalyst)

Related Reactions

Amide Formation (Acetic Acid + Ammonia) Baeyer-Villiger Oxidation Beckmann Rearrangement (Cyclohexanone Oxime) Bromination of Ethylene Buchwald-Hartwig Amination Cannizzaro Reaction of Formaldehyde Catalytic Hydrogenation of Ethylene Claisen Condensation (Ethyl Acetate) Condensation Polymerization (Nylon 6,6) Cope Rearrangement

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)).