Limitations
One of the main drawbacks of the Henry Reaction is the potential for side reactions throughout the course of the reaction. Aside from the reversibility of the reaction (Retro-Henry) which could prevent the reaction from proceeding, the β-nitro alcohol has the potential to undergo dehydration, and for sterically hindered substrates it is possible that a base catalyzed self-condensation (Cannizaro reaction) could occur. A general scheme of the Cannizzaro reaction is depicted below.
Read more about this topic: Nitroaldol Reaction
Famous quotes containing the word limitations:
“... art transcends its limitations only by staying within them.”
—Flannery OConnor (19251964)
“That all may be so, but when I begin to exercise that power I am not conscious of the power, but only of the limitations imposed on me.”
—William Howard Taft (18571930)
“To note an artists limitations is but to define his talent. A reporter can write equally well about everything that is presented to his view, but a creative writer can do his best only with what lies within the range and character of his deepest sympathies.”
—Willa Cather (18761947)