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Slow addition of the acetaldehyde to a benzaldehyde solution containing the base will often result in less self-condensation. Explain. Identify one other method that can be used to combat this competitive reaction. Include sources
Accepted Answer
Slow addition of acetaldehyde to a benzaldehyde solution containing a base helps minimize self-condensation due to the rate of reaction. By slowly adding acetaldehyde, you ensure that the concentration of acetaldehyde in the reaction mixture remains low at any given time. This minimizes the chance of acetaldehyde molecules reacting with themselves to form aldol condensation products.
Another method to combat self-condensation is using a protective group. Protecting the carbonyl group of benzaldehyde, for example, by forming an acetal, prevents its participation in the aldol condensation reaction. Once the reaction with acetaldehyde is complete, the protective group can be removed to yield the desired product.
Sources:
Organic Chemistry, 10th Edition by Paula Yurkanis Bruice
Organic Chemistry as a Second Language
by David R. Klein
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