Chapter 24, Problem 24.71P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The mechanism for the synthesis of isophorone from three molecules of acetone is to be drawn.

Concept introduction: In Aldol condensation reaction, the base abstracts the acidic proton from $\text{α}$ carbon atom to form enolate. This enolate or enol reacts with carbonyl compound that leads to the formation of $\text{β}$-hydroxyaldehyde or $\text{β}$-hydroxyketone which on further dehydration gives the conjugated enone.