Question

The following structure represents an intermediate formed by the addition of an ester enolate ion to a second ester molecule. Identify the reactant, the leaving group, and the product.

Short answer

The reactant, leaving group, and the product is,

Step-by-step solution

Intermediate

The addition of an ester enolate ion to the second ester molecules is the first step of Claisen condensation. The given intermediate is,

The carbon atom bonded to the alkoxide group must be part of a carbonyl.

The next step of Claisen Condensation is as follows,

Final product

The reactant, leaving group and the product is as follows,