What do you make of this mechanism?

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The discussion centers on the validity of a proposed mechanism for Michael-type addition reactions, particularly focusing on the role of steric hindrance in carbocation stability within vinyl groups. It highlights how neighboring terminal methylene groups influence electron flow and the mechanism's efficiency when interacting with electronegative species. The potential for intramolecular charge rearrangement to form a double methylene moiety is also considered. Additionally, the possibility of ester exchange versus Michael addition is debated, with a consensus that additions are generally favored due to lower energy requirements. The mechanism is acknowledged as sound, with suggestions to depict enolate anions as delocalized onto oxygen, followed by protonation and tautomerization to achieve the final product. Transesterification is noted as a viable side reaction, contingent on specific reaction conditions.
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Hello, I think the one I drew and included in the attachment is valid for Michael-type addition reactions. Do you make a favor to check the mechanism?

I think, the steric hindrance of the more-stable carbocation in vinyl group can not participate in this type of mechanism, it is further suppressed by the persuaded electron flow coming from the neighboring terminal methylene, with the effect of attacking highly electronegative species. An intramolecular charge rearrangement gives a double methylene moiety from vinylmethylene.

Also noted is the possible side reactions; can there be an ester exchange here instead of Michael addition? I think additions are more favored than substitutions, as it seems to require more energy. If I am wrong, I would like to know what you're thinking about this.

Thank you for your interest.
 

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The mechanism looks okay to me, although I would draw out the enolate anions as delocalized onto oxygen, then protonate on the oxygen to make an enol, then tautomerize to the final product.

Transesterification is certainly a possibility as well. I suppose it depends on the precise reaction conditions.
 
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