THE REACTION OF PHENYLLITHIUM WITH CARBON MONOXIDE

Article abstract of DOI:10.1016/S0022-328X(00)98502-4

Three main products are obtained from the reaction between phenyllithium and carbon monoxide, namely: benzophenone (I), benzoin (II) and α,α-diphenylacetophenone (III).Evidence is given for the existence of benzoyllithium as the first intermediate of the reaction and for the subsequent intermediates in the production of I, II and III.The basic sequences followed in the formation of those and of other minor products are outlined in the Scheme.Reaction conditions can be adjusted to obtain III in a high yield or to prevent further reaction of the first intermediate and obtain diarylalkylcarbinols, or substituted tetrahydrofurans.