One notable example of the oxidation of ketones and aldehydes in the Baeyer-Villiger oxidation is the transformation of cyclohexanone into caprolactone.

The Baeyer-Villiger oxidation is a significant chemical reaction that converts ketones and aldehydes into esters or lactones. This reaction is typically facilitated by a peracid, such as m-chloroperbenzoic acid (MCPBA), which acts as the oxidizing agent.

In the case of cyclohexanone, the Baeyer-Villiger oxidation involves the use of MCPBA to oxidize the ketone functional group into a lactone functional group, yielding caprolactone as the product. The reaction mechanism includes the formation of a cyclic intermediate, which is subsequently cleaved by the peracid, leading to the generation of the lactone.

The Baeyer-Villiger oxidation is particularly valuable for synthesizing lactones and esters, which serve as essential building blocks in the production of various natural products and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, this reaction plays a crucial role in the industrial manufacture of caprolactone, a compound utilized in the production of nylon-6.

In summary, the Baeyer-Villiger oxidation is a versatile and powerful method for the oxidation of ketones and aldehydes, with numerous applications in organic synthesis and industrial chemistry.