Chapter 23.7, Problem 12P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The mechanism by which a β ketoester gets cleaved into two fragments when treated with a base, as shown, is to be given indicating the electron flow using curved arrows.

Concept introduction:

The steps involved in the reaction are i) The nucleophilic attack of the base on the carbonyl group of the ester ii) Elimination of an enolate ion iii) Protonation of the enolate anion.

To give:

The mechanism by which a β ketoester gets cleaved into two fragments when treated with a base, as shown, indicating the electron flow using curved arrows.