Abstract
An X-ray analysis of 2,3-substituted-1,4-naphthoquinones has been performed. On the basis of obtained data the structure factors causing the photoactivity of the investigated compounds has been determined. The study of photochemistry of these compounds in ethanol in common with quantum-chemical calculations (INDO/S, MNDO) has made it possible to suggest a mechanism of photoconversion for these compounds in solution connected with hydrogen atoms elimination and further synchronous cycle closure.