A blog by two chemists working in chemistry and chemical biology

Sunday, 24 March 2013

The Peterson olefination



There are many different ways to synthesise alkenes in organic synthesis. The problem in many cases, especially those in macrocycles or non-cyclic systems is getting good E/Z selectivity. Several methods are possible however, one of the simplest is the peterson olefination. The reaction allows control of E/Z selectivity by the conditions used to remove the silane.  


Reaction overview

The Peterson olefination utilises silicon to allow condition dependent cis/trans selective olefination of aldehydes and ketones.

Basic elimination

The basic elimination conditions favours the syn-product via a proposed penta-substituted Si intermediate.


Acid Elimination

The acid elimination conditions favours the anti-elimination to give the trans product.


Summary

The Peterson olefination allows E/Z synthesis without using an expensive chiral catalyist and can provide differing stereoselectivity on the same substrate. 



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