The acetoacetic ester condensation is a powerful organic synthesis reaction for creating complex molecules. It reacts two ester molecules (reactant) with a base like sodium ethoxide (reagent) in a solvent (often ethanol) to form a β-diketone (product). This reaction is crucial in the creation of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and materials. 

Chemical reaction - two ester molecules (reactant) with a base like sodium ethoxide (reagent) in a solvent (often ethanol) to form a β-diketone (product). This reaction is crucial in the creation of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and materials.