Ketones can be synthesized from carboxylic acids. To do this, the proton of the carboxylic proton must first be removed using a base. This can be done by using lithium hydroxide (LiOH) as the base. Any alkyl lithium compound could also work. This deprotonation forms a carboxylate ion. A nucleophilic, negatively charged alkyl group can attack the carbonyl of this carboxylate. The electrons go up onto the oxygen atom. This forms a species with two negatively charged oxygen atoms. Following protonation using acid and water, a geminal diol is formed. Geminal diols like this are unstable, and easily dehydrate forming a carbonyl. In this case, the dehydration forms a ketone.