What initial step is necessary for chemical synthesis to begin?

Choosing a reactant compound is crucial for initiating chemical synthesis as it defines the starting materials that will undergo a chemical transformation. The specific type of reactant selected will determine the possible reactions and the products formed during the synthesis process. It sets the foundation upon which further steps, such as determining conditions for the reaction, selecting a catalyst if necessary, and identifying the desired end product, will be built.

Selecting reactants is essential because the properties, reactivity, and behavior of these compounds dictate how they will interact with one another. By thoroughly understanding the reactant compounds, chemists can manipulate conditions and choose appropriate catalysts later on in the synthesis to optimize the yield and efficiency of the desired product. Therefore, without this initial selection, the entire synthesis process cannot proceed effectively.