Isomerization of Hetaryl Analogues of α‐Benzoins in Basic Media

Abstract

The α → β isomerization of hetaryl analogues of benzoins occurring in basic media on heating is a convenient preparative way to obtain hydroxymethylcarbonyl‐substituted derivatives of π‐excessive heterocycles. The reaction is favored by increased catalyst basicity, solvent polarity, and the electron‐donor ability of a hetaryl residue. At room temperature, oxidation to hetaryl analogues of benzil becomes dominating.

Keywords:

• Basic catalyst
• Benzoins
• π‐Excessive heterocycles
• Isomerization
• Solvent polarity

Acknowledgments

We are pleased to acknowledge the financial support provided by the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine (Grant No. 0101U001529).