Chapter 19, Problem 19.63P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The synthesis for gabapentin has to be proposed.

Concept introduction:

Aldol reaction is an addition reaction of aldehydes and ketones. Aldol reaction is a reversible reaction and occurs in 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.

When two molecules of an ester undergo condensation, then it is called claisen condensation. Like in aldol reaction, in claisen condensation one molecule is a nucleophile and the other molecule is an electrophile.

A claisen condensation reaction is a reversible reaction and occurs in the presence of a strong base.

Esterification reaction:

In an esterification reaction, carboxylic acid combines with an alcohol in presence of little concentrated sulphuric acid to produce an ester.

Reduction of aldehydes and ketones:

In the reduction of carbonyl compounds, carbonyl compounds act as the oxidising agent and the reducing agent will be the hydrogen gas in presence of a metal.