Cyclohexenones via Michael Addition and Aldol Condensation: The Robinson Annulation

Robinson annulation involves the formation of 2-cyclohexenone derivatives from 1,3-dicarbonyl donors and α,β-unsaturated carbonyl acceptors using a base.

The reaction produces a six-membered ring with three new C–C bonds.

The two-step reaction comprises Michael addition followed by intramolecular aldol condensation.

Michael addition initiates with a base deprotonating the acidic hydrogen in the Michael donor to generate an enolate ion.

Conjugate addition of the enolate to the Michael acceptor, followed by protonation, forms the Michael adduct, which further endures an intramolecular aldol condensation pathway.

Deprotonation of a suitable α hydrogen yields another enolate ion which intramolecularly adds to the carbonyl carbon resulting in a cyclic alkoxy intermediate.

A subsequent protonation, followed by dehydration, gives the annulated product.

To conclude, in Robinson annulation, the α carbon of the donor bonds to the β carbon of the acceptor via Michael addition, and a six-membered ring forms via an intramolecular aldol condensation with a double bond at the position of the ring closure.