What are Some Common Applications of LDA in Catalysis?
LDA finds extensive use in various catalytic processes, including:
Enolate Chemistry: The generation of enolates from carbonyl compounds is one of the most common applications of LDA. Aldol Reactions: LDA is often used to form enolates, which then participate in aldol condensations to form β-hydroxy carbonyl compounds. Claisen Condensations: LDA facilitates the formation of enolates which then react with esters to form β-keto esters. Esterifications and Acylations: LDA can be used to generate carbanions that react with electrophiles such as acid chlorides or anhydrides.