Michael Addition

Abstract The 1,4‐addition (or conjugated addition) of a nucleophile to an electron‐deficient alkene or alkyne is generally referred to as the Michael addition. Because both nucleophile and Michael acceptor become a part of the Michael adduct, this reaction is one of the most atom‐efficient reactions and has been widely explored in many aspects. The hetero‐Michael addition and initial Michael acceptors for the reaction have been discussed. However, it has been observed that the Michael addition requires a prolonged reaction time, thus different catalysts have been used or developed to facilitate the reaction. This reaction has been extensively modified by application of different bases and catalysts to enhance the diastereoselectivities and enantioselectivities. This reaction has wide application in organic synthesis.