Claisen Condensation: Mechanism and Applications

This lecture covers the Claisen condensation reaction, a base-promoted condensation between esters leading to 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds. It explains the self-condensation and cross-Claisen condensation, highlighting the importance of enol form existence for successful reactions. The Dieckmann condensation and Thorpe-Ziegler condensation are also discussed, along with the preparation of activated esters. Enamine chemistry, including reactivity, equilibrium with imine, and enamine-based catalytic transformations, is presented. The lecture concludes with enantioselective reactions using L-Proline as a catalyst, such as the Aldol and Mannich reactions.