Which of the following statements is consistent with the mechanism for the nucleophilic addition of aldehydes/ketones under basic conditions?
A) a proton transfer followed by a nucleophilic attack
B) a nucleophilic attack followed by a proton transfer
C) nucleophilic attack is the only step
D) proton transfer is not required

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In the mechanism for the nucleophilic addition of aldehydes/ketones under basic conditions, the first step is a nucleophilic attack on the carbonyl carbon by the nucleophile. This is followed by a proton transfer from the alpha carbon (adjacent to the carbonyl carbon) to the oxygen atom. Therefore, option B, a nucleophilic attack followed by a proton transfer, is consistent with the mechanism. Option A is incorrect because proton transfer happens after nucleophilic attack. Option C is incorrect because nucleophilic attack is followed by proton transfer. Option D is incorrect because proton transfer is a crucial step in the mechanism.

Which of the Following Statements Is Consistent with the Mechanism