Answer the following questions. Be as complete as possible, and always explain your reasoning. 1. Write a mechanism for the base-catalyzed aldol reaction of 2-acetylpyridine with 4-nitrobenzaldehyde to form 3-hydroxy-3-(4-nitrophenyl)-1-(2-py ridyl)-1-propanone. Be as complete as possible and show electron flow for all steps.
*Note: Do NOT simply write out the book mechanism without any critical review. It may not be complete in terms of showing ALL electron flow (proton transfers, in particular, are often assumed and not drawn out fully). You are responsible for writing complete reaction mechanisms that are inspired by the rules and guidelines set forth in both the lab AND lecture courses.
2. Write a mechanism for the conversion of the aldol addition product, 3-hydroxy-3-(4-nitrophenyl)-1-(2-py ridyl)-1-propanone, to the aldol condensation product, (E)-3-(4-nitrophenyl)-1-(2-pyridyl) -1-propenone. Be as complete as possible and show electron flow for all steps.
3. The role of sodium carbonate in the aldol reaction…
Was sodium carbonate added in excess, compared to the other two reactants? Show the necessary calculation for sodium carbonate, in mmoles, and include the comparison amounts of ketone and aldehyde from the Data and Results Table.
Was sodium carbonate the limiting reactant? Explain your answer.