The alpha alkylation reaction involves an α hydrogen being replaced with an alkyl group. This reaction is one of the more important for enolates because a carbon-carbon bond is formed. These alkylatio...The alpha alkylation reaction involves an α hydrogen being replaced with an alkyl group. This reaction is one of the more important for enolates because a carbon-carbon bond is formed. These alkylations are affected by the same limitations as other Sn2 reactions.