Aldol Condensation
Aldol condensation is a type of organic reaction that involves the formation of a beta hydroxy aldehyde or a beta hydroxy ketone through the condensation of two carbonyl compounds. It is named after the organic compound aldol, which consists of an aldehyde and an alcohol group.

Reaction Mechanism
The reaction mechanism of aldol condensation involves three main steps:

1. Formation of Enolate Ion: In the first step, one of the carbonyl compounds (usually an aldehyde or a ketone) undergoes deprotonation by a base to form an enolate ion. This enolate ion acts as a nucleophile.

2. Nucleophilic Addition: The enolate ion then attacks the carbonyl carbon of the second carbonyl compound. This nucleophilic addition results in the formation of a bond between the alpha carbon of one carbonyl compound and the carbonyl carbon of the other compound.

3. Elimination: The resulting compound is unstable due to the presence of the alpha hydroxy group. It undergoes an intramolecular elimination reaction, resulting in the formation of a double bond between the alpha and beta carbon atoms. This leads to the formation of a beta hydroxy aldehyde or a beta hydroxy ketone.

Product Formation
The product formed in aldol condensation is a beta hydroxy aldehyde or a beta hydroxy ketone. This is because the reaction involves the condensation of two carbonyl compounds, resulting in the formation of a compound with a hydroxy group (-OH) attached to the beta carbon atom.

Other Products
While the main product of aldol condensation is a beta hydroxy aldehyde or a beta hydroxy ketone, side reactions can also occur. These side reactions may lead to the formation of other products such as alpha, beta unsaturated esters or even alpha hydroxy aldehydes or ketones. However, the main product is still the beta hydroxy aldehyde or ketone.

Conclusion
In conclusion, aldol condensation is a reaction that involves the formation of a beta hydroxy aldehyde or a beta hydroxy ketone. The reaction mechanism includes the formation of an enolate ion, nucleophilic addition, and elimination. While side reactions may occur, the main product is still the beta hydroxy aldehyde or ketone.