What are the key steps in a Stork enamine synthesis?

The key steps in a Stork enamine synthesis are enamine formation, Michael addition, and hydrolysis.

Stork enamine synthesis is a method used in organic chemistry to form α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds. This process involves three main steps: enamine formation, Michael addition, and hydrolysis.

In the first step, enamine formation, a secondary amine reacts with a ketone or aldehyde to form an enamine. This is facilitated by the removal of a molecule of water during the reaction. The enamine is a nucleophile, meaning it donates an electron pair to form a chemical bond.

The second step is the Michael addition. The enamine formed in the first step reacts with an α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compound. This reaction is a conjugate addition, meaning the enamine adds across the double bond of the α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compound. The result is a new carbon-carbon bond and a 1,5-dicarbonyl compound.

The final step is hydrolysis. The 1,5-dicarbonyl compound is treated with an acid or base to form the final α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compound. This step involves the addition of water and the removal of the amine that was used in the first step.

In summary, Stork enamine synthesis is a three-step process that involves the formation of an enamine, a Michael addition, and hydrolysis. This method is particularly useful in organic chemistry for the formation of α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds.