Chapter 23.1, Problem 2P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Using curved arrows to indicate the electron flow in each step, how the base catalyzed retro-aldol reaction of 4-hydroxy-4-methyl-2-pentanone takes place to yield 2 equivalents of acetone, is to be shown.

Concept introduction:

The steps involved in the retro-aldol reaction are i) Deprotonation by the base used ii) Elimination of the enolate ion iii) Protonation of the anion.

To show:

Using curved arrows to indicate the electron flow in each step how the base catalyzed retro-aldol reaction of 4-hydroxy-4-methyl-2-pentanone takes place to yield 2 equivalents of acetone.