MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #265

A student attempts to perform an Aldol condensation in a basic medium. Which of the following compounds will fail to undergo this reaction?

MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #265

  1. Question 1

    Q1. A student attempts to perform an Aldol condensation in a basic medium. Which of the following compounds will fail to undergo this reaction?

    • A) Benzaldehyde
    • B) Ethanal
    • C) Propanal
    • D) Acetone

    Answer: Benzaldehyde

    Explanation: Aldol condensation requires at least one alpha-hydrogen to form the enolate ion. Benzaldehyde lacks alpha-hydrogens and undergoes Cannizzaro reaction instead, failing this test.