412. The kinetics and mechanisms of carbonyl-methylene condensations. Part VIII. The reaction of ethyl cyanoacetate with aromatic aldehydes in ethanol, in water, and in ethanol-water mixtures

The reaction of ethyl cyanoacetate with five aromatic aldehydes in ethanol, in water, and in ethanol-water mixtures was studied. The effect of various acids, bases, and salts on the reaction was also determined. It is concluded from the kinetic results that the first step of the reaction is the dissociation of the active C-H bond of ethyl cyanoacetate, followed by a reaction between the carbanion so formed and the aldehyde. The mechanism of the reaction and its dependence on the various factors studied are discussed.