Carbonyl condensation reactions

Definition

Carbonyl condensation reactions are chemical processes where two carbonyl-containing molecules combine, with the loss of a small molecule such as water, to form a larger molecule that contains a carbonyl group. This type of reaction is fundamental in forming carbon-carbon bonds in organic synthesis.

Related terms

Aldol Reaction: A specific type of carbonyl condensation reaction where an aldehyde or ketone acts as both nucleophile and electrophile, resulting in a β-hydroxyaldehyde or β-hydroxyketone.

Claisen Condensation: A reaction where two esters or one ester and another carbonyl compound react together in the presence of a strong base to produce a β-keto ester or a β-diketone.

Ketone: An organic compound characterized by a carbonyl group (a carbon-oxygen double bond) bonded to two other carbon atoms