Alpha Carbon Chemistry Flashcards
1
Q
What is the first step in base catalyzed keto-enol tautomerization?
A
Creation of an enolate anion
This involves resonance structures of a carbanion and an oxyanion.
2
Q
In an enol reaction, what role does the alpha carbon play?
A
Acts as a nucleophile
The alpha carbon accepts the extra pair of electrons to form the carbanion.
3
Q
What determines an element’s ability to accept electrons in its hybridization?
A
Electronegativity
A more electronegative atom is more stable with a negative formal electric charge and contributes more to the reaction product.
4
Q
True or False: A more electronegative atom will destabilize a negative formal charge.
A
False
More electronegative atoms stabilize negative formal charges.
