Theoretical study of the effect of water clusters on the enol content of acetone as a model for understanding the effect of water on enolization reaction

The enolization of simple carbonyl compounds is a key reaction for many chemical and biochemical processes. Numerous theoretical experimental studies have been done to probe aspects the mechanism this reaction. In work, effect small water clusters, (H2O)n, n = 1–9, on enol content acetone has investigated by using density functional theory calculations at M06 level in gas solution phases. indicated that formation hydrogen-bonded assemblies between clusters both tautomers affect Among them, trimeric cluster highest binding energy difference (ΔEb) phase greatly shifts equilibrium favor form. results also show under condition, increased with decreasing polarity solvent. practical conclusion study can be maximized only addition defined amount water.