The compound known as Hageman’s ester is prepared by treatment of a mixture of formaldehyde and ethyl acetoacetate with base, followed by acid- catalyzed decarboxylation.

(a) The first step is an aldol-like condensation between ethyl acetoacetate and formaldehyde to yield an α, β-unsaturated product. Write the reaction, and show the structure of the product.

(b) The second step is a Michael reaction between ethyl acetoacetate and the unsaturated product of the first step. Show the structure of the product.

Transcribed Image Text:

HO CO,- Citrate Oxaloacetate Acetyl CoA