Identify the appropriate reagent for the following transformation.

Step-by-step solution

The given transformation is the conversion of a ketone (acetophenone) into a ketal. The product is a diethyl ketal, as it contains two ethoxy ( - OCH₂CH₃ ) groups attached to the same carbon atom. Ketal formation occurs when a ketone reacts with two equivalents of a monohydric alcohol in the presence of an acid catalyst. The general reaction is: R₂C=O + 2 R'OH R₂C(OR')₂ + H₂O Since the product has ethoxy groups, the required alcohol is ethanol ( CH₃CH₂OH ). The specific reaction is: C₆H₅COCH₃ + 2 CH₃CH₂OH C₆H₅C(OCH