hi,
if we look at the phenolates of 3-OH and 4-OH benzaldehydes, we see
that in the 4-OH case, the phenolate is in resonance with the formyl
group, whereas in the 3-OH case it isn't (if this is not clear, i
can make a quick sketch of what i mean).
1) does that mean that in the 4-OH case the negative charge is more
dislocated and thus the alkylation is _slower_ (maybe not noticeable)
than in the 3-OH case?
2) does that mean that in the 4-OH case, the formyl group can also
be alkylated? giving a strange compound (which i can't name)?
3) now suppose we have a MeO or other activating group in the 5 position.
this would speed up the 4-OH alkylation (two negative charges on the ring),
but would still leave the possibility of the formyl alkylation?
i hope i ain't annoying people with my questions!
couch terrorist