How many different $\beta$-hydroxyaldehydes and $\beta$-hydroxyketones, including constitutional isomers and stereoisomers, are formed upon treatment of a mixture of acetone and benzaldehyde with base?
A)1
B)2
C)3
D)4

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The reaction between acetone and benzaldehyde with base results in a crossed aldol reaction. Four possible products can be formed, but two of them are enantiomers, resulting in a total of three different compounds: (1) F1F1F1S1βF1F1F10-hydroxyaldehyde, (2) F1F1F1R1βF1F1F10-hydroxyaldehyde (enantiomer of 1), and (3) F1F1F1S1βF1F1F10-hydroxyketone. Therefore, the answer is (C) 3.

How Many Different β\betaβ -Hydroxyaldehydes And β\betaβ -Hydroxyketones, Including Constitutional Isomers and Stereoisomers, Are Formed Upon Treatment

How Many Different $\beta$ -Hydroxyaldehydes And $\beta$ -Hydroxyketones, Including Constitutional Isomers and Stereoisomers, Are Formed Upon Treatment