Aldol Condensations

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A. "Crossed" or "mixed" aldol condensations are practical for synthesis, if one of the aldehydes (or ketones) has no alpha-hydrogen atoms. Explain.
b. In the aldol condensation, why might it be essential that the benzaldehyde contain no benzoic acid?

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For the aldol condensation, the mechanism includes the enol type intermediate. This intermediate can occur with any carbonyl group having alpha hydrogen atoms. By making one of you reagents have no alpha hydrogens (A), you ...

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