All CH bonds are not equal: The intramoleculararylation of unactivated C(sp3)H bonds in the presence of a chiral Pd/binepine catalyst allows the synthesis of fusedcyclopentanes efficiently and in an diastereo‐ and enantioselective manner (see scheme).
Factors determining the relative proportions of mono and dialkylated products have been discussed. Selectivity of alkylation in liquid ammonia may be controlled by varying the amount of NaNH2. Other factors of interest in the control of mono versus dialkylation are indicated.
Phase transfer alkylations of phenylacetonitrile derivatives carried out in the presence of 60–75% aqueous KOH, instead of the typical 50% NaOH, provide substantial improvements in the overall yields and purity of products. Reactions with simple secondaryalkylhalides, as well as cycloalkylations with 1,2- and 1,3-dihaloalkanes proceed with good yields. Increasing the concentration of base diminishes