Claisen condensation reaction

Definition

A Claisen condensation reaction is an organic chemical reaction where two esters or one ester and another carbonyl compound react in the presence of a strong base, leading to the formation of a β-keto ester or a β-diketone. It's a key method for forming carbon-carbon bonds in organic synthesis.

Related terms

Esters: Organic compounds made by replacing the hydrogen of an acid by an alkyl or other organic group, often characterized by their fruity odors.

Carbonyl Compound: An organic compound that contains a carbonyl group (C=O), which is central to its reactivity and properties.

Base Catalysis: A process where a base speeds up a chemical reaction, crucial for facilitating reactions like the Claisen condensation