Chapter 22.2, Problem 6P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: A stepwise mechanism for the given reaction of benzaldehyde $\left({\text{C}}_{\text{6}}{\text{H}}_{\text{5}}\text{CHO}\right)$ with heptanal $\left({\text{CH}}_3{\text{CH}}_2{\text{CH}}_2{\text{CH}}_2{\text{CH}}_2{\text{CH}}_2\text{CHO}\right)$ is to be drawn.

Concept Introduction: Aldol reaction is the condensation reaction of the organic chemistry. In this reaction an enolate ion or an enol reacts with the carbonyl compound that leads to the formation of $\text{β}$-hydroxyaldehyde or $\text{β}$-hydroxyketone which on further dehydration gives the conjugated enone. It is necessary that the carbonyl compound must contain at least one $\text{α}-\text{hydrogen}$ atom to undergo aldol reaction.

The crossed aldol reaction takes place between the two different carbonyl compounds that is between two different aldehydes or two different ketones or one aldehyde and one ketone. The crossed aldol reaction takes place only if the carbonyl compound contains an acidic $\text{α}-\text{hydrogen}$ atom.