Chapter 17.15, Problem 34P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The molecule $2,4-\text{pentanedione}$ undergoes intramolecular aldol addition or not is to be stated.

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 carbonyl functional groups that can react with each other, an intramolecular reaction readily occurs.  The reaction leads to the formation of five or six-membered rings.