Acetone a1 b1 cyclopentanone a2 b2 cyclohexanone a3

Acetone A1 B1
Cyclopentanone A2 B2
Cyclohexanone A3 B3
Reactants:
In this experiment, based on the reactants themselves, the reactions involving trans-
cinnamaldehyde and cyclohexanone should react the fastest because there are more carbon atoms
on this molecule when compared to the others reactants. There is also less steric hindrance in this
reaction. Based on the class’s data and observations, my prediction was correct since the reaction
involving trans-cinnamaldehyde and cyclohexanone reacted instantly.
Conclusion:

The purpose of this experiment was to synthesize an aldol (dicinnamalacetone) via an
aldol condensation reaction between acetone and trans-cinnamaldehyde. This was done by
mixing the two reactants with NaOH and ethanol, then allowing the reaction to sit for 30
minutes. The crystals were then washed with water and recrystallized using ethanol. It was then
characterized using melting point analysis. The observed melting point was 125 – 130°C,
compared to a literature value of 144°C. The lower and broader observed melting point may have
been due to the product still being wet. It may also be due to the unevaporated ethanol or the
presence of any other impurities in the product. However, the observed melting point was close
to the literature value, and it can thus be concluded that the product was dicinnamalacetone.
Thus, the aldol condensation reaction was successful.