Claisen Condensation (Ethyl Acetate)

2CH₃COOC₂H₅ → CH₃COCH₂COOC₂H₅ + C₂H₅OH

Overview

Two molecules of ethyl acetate undergo base-catalyzed condensation to form ethyl acetoacetate (a beta-keto ester) and ethanol. The enolate of one ester molecule attacks the carbonyl of another, displacing ethoxide. This is the ester analogue of the aldol reaction.

Participants

Role	Substance	Coefficient	State
Product	Ethanol C₂H₅OH	1	(l)

Everyday Example

Ethyl acetoacetate is a versatile synthetic building block used in the synthesis of vitamins, dyes, and pharmaceuticals.

Industrial Importance

The Claisen condensation is used to produce acetoacetate derivatives for pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and polyester synthesis.

Properties

Type: Organic
Reversible: Yes
Energy: Exothermic
ΔH: -10.0 kJ/mol
Catalyst: Sodium ethoxide (NaOEt)

Related Reactions

Aldol Condensation of Acetaldehyde 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 Condensation Polymerization (Nylon 6,6) Cope Rearrangement

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Claisen Condensation (Ethyl Acetate)?

The balanced equation is: 2CH₃COOC₂H₅ → CH₃COCH₂COOC₂H₅ + C₂H₅OH.

What type of reaction is Claisen Condensation (Ethyl Acetate)?

Claisen Condensation (Ethyl Acetate) is a organic reaction. It is reversible under certain conditions.

Is Claisen Condensation (Ethyl Acetate) exothermic or endothermic?

Claisen Condensation (Ethyl Acetate) is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -10.0 kJ/mol.

What conditions are needed for Claisen Condensation (Ethyl Acetate)?

This reaction requires a catalyst (Sodium ethoxide (NaOEt)).