What starting compound(s)would you use in an aldol reaction to prepare as the major product:
A)I
B)II
C)III
D)IV

Question

What starting compound(s)would you use in an aldol reaction to prepare as the major product: 
A)I 
B)II 
C)III 
D)IV

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The structure of the major product suggests that it is a β-hydroxy ketone. Therefore, the starting compound for the aldol reaction must contain both a carbonyl group and a reactive α-hydrogen. Out of the given options, only compound II satisfies these criteria as it contains a ketone group and two α-hydrogens. Additionally, the α-carbon of the ketone group in II is not bulky, which allows for the formation of a stable enolate ion during the aldol reaction. Therefore, compound II is the best choice for the desired aldol product.

What Starting Compound(s)would You Use in an Aldol Reaction to Prepare