Question

Question: Identify compounds A and B, two synthetic intermediates in the 1979 synthesis of the plant growth hormone gibberellic acid by Corey and Smith. Gibberellic acid induces cell division and elongation, thus making plants tall and leaves large.

Short answer

Answer

Products

Step-by-step solution

Ozonolysis reaction

The C=C bond breaks and a carbonyl $\left(C=O\right)$group is introduced at both the carbons in the double bond.

Intramolecular aldol reaction

In this reaction, an enolizable carbonyl group and a carbonyl group react together and form a five or a six-membered ring.

Products of the given reactions

The products are shown here below:

Products A and B.