Carbonyl → Alkene Chooser (Wittig vs HWE vs Others): Mechanism + Exam Traps

A strategy page for turning aldehydes/ketones into alkenes.

  • Reaction: Carbonyl → Alkene Chooser (Wittig vs HWE vs Others)
  • What it does: A strategy page for turning aldehydes/ketones into alkenes.
  • Typical reagents: Wittig (Ph3P=CH2), then workup
  • Key intermediate: Varies / context-dependent
  • Driving force: Formation of more stable bonds / products
  • Exam type: Choose reagents
  • Exam type: Plan order of operations
  • Exam type: Chemoselectivity

Related Resources

All 194 Mechanisms — Synthesis Strategy & Problem Solving Mechanism Flashcards AI Reaction Predictor Ask the AI Tutor