Abstract
Selective formation of (2E)‐2‐methylalk‐2‐enoates or 2‐methyl alkanoates could be achieved in moderate to good yields under mild conditions via Sm/HOAc/EtOH system–mediated reduction of Baylis–Hillman acetates depending on the amount of samarium consumed in the reactions.
Acknowledgment
The authors are grateful to the Opening Foundation of Zhejiang Provincial Top Key Discipline for financial support.