MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #391

For an aldehyde or ketone to undergo base-catalyzed Aldol condensation, what is the essential structural requirement in the molecule?

MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #391

  1. Question 1

    Q1. For an aldehyde or ketone to undergo base-catalyzed Aldol condensation, what is the essential structural requirement in the molecule?

    • A) The presence of a bulky group on the carbonyl carbon
    • B) The presence of at least one alpha-hydrogen atom
    • C) The absence of any hydrogen atoms on the alpha-carbon
    • D) The ability to undergo disproportionation in concentrated alkali

    Answer: The presence of at least one alpha-hydrogen atom

    Explanation: Aldol condensation requires at least one alpha-hydrogen to form an enolate ion. Option D fails because it is the definition of Cannizzaro.