Aldol Addition
Aldol Addition is a fundamental reaction in organic chemistry where two aldehydes or ketones combine to form a β-hydroxy carbonyl compound. This process typically involves the formation of an enolate ion from one carbonyl compound, which then attacks the carbonyl carbon of another compound, leading to the formation of a new carbon-carbon bond.
The resulting product, known as an aldol, can undergo further reactions, such as dehydration, to form α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds. This reaction is significant in synthetic organic chemistry, as it allows for the construction of complex molecules from simpler ones, facilitating the development of various pharmaceuticals and natural products.