Abstract
We describe the formation and reactions of the α-lithiated (2-pyridyl)methylphosphonate 1. The lihated α-picoline is obtained by metallation in THF at low temperature with LDA (lithium diisopropylamide) (2 equiv.). This is then condensed with diethyl chlorophosphate. The thus-formed stable carbanion 1 reacts with various electrophiles: H2O. D2O, TMSCI, RX, and aldehydes in a Wittig-Homer reaction.