The present invention provides a process for producing
2-(1-hydroxyalkyl)cycloalkanone and/or 2-(1-hydroxyaryl)cycloalkanone in
high yield and selectivity, as well as a process using the same to
produce a cycloalkanone derivative useful as a perfume material and a
physiologically active substance. Disclosed is a process for producing
compound (3), which includes subjecting a cycloalkanone, and aldehyde (2)
containing carboxylic acid (1), to aldol condensation in the presence of
water and a basic catalyst, wherein the molar amount (referred to
hereinafter as A) of the basic catalyst added is not less than the molar
amount (referred to hereinafter as B) of the carboxylic acid (1)
contained in the aldehyde (2) and the difference between A and B, that
is, (A-B) is 0.06 mol or less per mol of the aldehyde (2), as well as a
process for producing compounds (7) and (8) by using the compound (3)
obtained by the above process. ##STR00001## wherein n is an integer of 1
or 2, R.sup.1 represents H or a C1 to C8 alkyl group or the like, and
R.sup.2 represents a C1 to C3 alkyl group.