Multi-component versus one-pot synthesis

Cascade reactions signify reactions involving two or more bond forming transformations that take place under unchanged reaction conditions and in which the subsequent reactions result from the functionality formed in the previous step5. 

This can be achieved either in a true multi-component mode, where all the substrates and reagents are mixed together initially and subsequently processed, or in a one-pot multi-step procedure, where one or several ofthe reaction components are added to the reaction at a later stage. Both approaches eliminate the need for work-up or purification between the different reaction steps making the reaction both more eco-friendly and faster. 

It is sometimes hard to distinguish between a true multi-component reaction and a multi-step one-pot reaction however, it might be important to the outcome of the 

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