How does the judicious choice of an organic solvent alter the keto-enol thermodynamic equilibrium of — Isomerism and Stereochemistry Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

The exceptionally high enol content of $\beta$ -diketones relies on a delicate intramolecular hydrogen bond. Non-polar aprotic solvents (like hexane) do not disrupt this bond, maximizing the enol percentage. Conversely, polar protic solvents (like water) form competing intermolecular H-bonds with the carbonyl oxygens, pushing the equilibrium back towards the keto form.