Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 19, 2026

Versatile CO2 Transformations into Complex Products: A One-pot Two-step Strategy
Published on: November 9, 2019
The Complete Mechanism of an Aldol Condensation
Charles L Perrin1, Kuei-Lin Chang1
1Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of California at San Diego , La Jolla, California 92093-0358, United States.
Abstract:
Although aldol condensation is one of the most important organic reactions, capable of forming new C-C bonds, its mechanism has never been fully established. We now conclude that the rate-limiting step in the base-catalyzed aldol condensation of benzaldehydes with acetophenones, to produce chalcones, is the final loss of hydroxide and formation of the C═C bond. This conclusion is based on a study of the partitioning ratios of the intermediate ketols and on the solvent kinetic isotope effects, whereby the condensations are faster in D2O than in H2O, regardless of substitution.
More Related Videos
06:31Highly Stereoselective Synthesis of 1,6-Ketoesters Mediated by Ionic Liquids: A Three-component Reaction Enabling Rapid Access to a New Class of Low Molecular Weight Gelators
Published on: November 27, 2015
10:12Retropinacol/Cross-pinacol Coupling Reactions - A Catalytic Access to 1,2-Unsymmetrical Diols
Published on: April 4, 2014
Related Concept Videos
C–C Bond Formation: Aldol Condensation Overview
Aldol Condensation vs Claisen Condensation
Base-Catalyzed Aldol Addition Reaction
Aldol Condensation with β-Diesters: Knoevenagel Condensation
Acid-Catalyzed Aldol Addition Reaction
Crossed Aldol Reactions: Overview