Single correct option
Which of the following exists to the greatest extent in its enol form at equilibrium?
- A. Pentane-2,4-dione
- B. Propanone
- C. Ethyl 3-oxobutanoate
- D. Ethanal
Show answer and solution
Answer: (A) Pentane-2,4-dione
Enol content depends on stabilisation of the enol. In pentane-2,4-dione the enol is stabilised by a conjugated system and a strong intramolecular hydrogen bond forming a six-membered chelate ring; a second ketone group is also more electron-withdrawing than an ester, so its enol content () exceeds that of ethyl acetoacetate (). Simple carbonyl compounds such as propanone () and ethanal have negligible enol content.
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