Pd(II)-catalyzed C–H olefination of aryl 2-pyridyl sulfoxides with unactivated and activated olefins has been demonstrated. We employed environmentally benign and inexpensive molecular oxygen as the sole oxidant. The versatile nature of the 2-pyridyl sulfoxide directinggroup has been proven by its transformation to the sulfone functionality. Deuterium scrambling experiments and intramolecular kinetic
Palladium-catalyzed C–H activation reactions directed by a removable 2-pyridylsulfinyl group were developed. Aromatic olefination products were formed in good yields on treatment of 2-(phenylsulfinyl)pyridines with alkenes in the presence of a Pd catalyst. The reaction tolerates a wide range of substituted alkenes, including various acrylates and styrenes. The controlled experiments indicated that