New data about the reaction of benzyolacetonitrile with malononitrile and its self‐condensation

The reactions of benzoylacetonitrile with malononitrile in refluxing pyridine and its self condensation under fusion conditions in the presence of ammonium acetate and in refluxing pyridine were reinvestigated. New data were found and plausible mechanisms to account for the formation of the products are suggested.