Difference between claisen condensation and saponification?

[patricklin27]

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I believe both involve esters and a strong base... how can you tell the difference between these two reactions? When will the ester become a carboxylate (saponification) and when will ester go through a claisen condensation?

 

[Illfavor]

For condensation reactions, your base is almost always going to be your alkoxide anion, not just a generic strong base. I recall this being because the carbonly carbon is obv prone to being attacked so if it is, the alkoxide will leave and be replaced by...the same alkoxide.