Aldol condensation is a chemical reaction that involves the formation of a β-hydroxy aldehyde or ketone through the reaction of two carbonyl compounds, typically an aldehyde and a ketone. This process begins with the enolate ion formation from one of the carbonyl compounds, which then attacks the carbonyl carbon of the other compound, leading to the formation of a β-hydroxy carbonyl compound. After the initial aldol addition, the β-hydroxy carbonyl can undergo dehydration, resulting in the formation of an α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compound. This reaction is significant in organic synthesis, as it allows for the construction of larger and more complex molecules from simpler ones.