Organic Chemistry : Identifying Enolates

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for Organic Chemistry

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Organic Intermediates

Which of the following transformations includes an enolate intermediate?

 Q12

Possible Answers:

I, II, and III

I and II

II and III

I and III

III only

Correct answer:

II and III

Explanation:

Enolates are formed by an oxygen anion bound to an alkene carbon. Reactions II and III include an enolate intermediate, as shown in the mechanisms below, whereas reaction I is a simple SN2 reaction and does not include an enolate intermediate. Enolates are highlighted in red. 

A12

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