Chapter 18, Problem 18.37P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The complete and detailed mechanism of the Robinson annulation reaction given in Equation 18-55 is to be drawn.

Concept introduction:

A Robinson annulation reaction is a Michael reaction, the conjugate addition of an enolate anion, followed by intramolecular aldol condensation. One of the reactants of a Robinson annulation must be an $\text{α, β-}$ unsaturated carbonyl compound with two acidic $\text{α}$-protons. The second must be a ketone or aldehyde with one acidic $\text{α}$-proton