Chapter 13, Problem 39P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Structure of cyclic product with six-membered rings when 2,6-heptanedione and 2,8-nonanedione is treated with sodium hydroxide has to be drawn.

Concept introduction:

Aldol reaction is an addition reaction of aldehydes and ketones. Aldol reaction is a reversible reaction and occurs in the presence of a strong base like sodium hydroxide.

One molecule (aldehyde or ketone) acts a nucleophile and attacks the electrophilic carbon center of the other molecule to give the addition product.  The product is named $\beta$-hydroxy aldehyde if two aldehydes combine and $\beta$-hydroxy ketone if two ketones combine.

If a compound has two functional groups that can react with each other, an intramolecular reaction readily occurs if the reaction leads to occur five or six-membered rings.