Magnesium-Catalyzed Hydroboration of Terminal and Internal Alkynes
Marc Magre1, Bholanath Maity2, Alban Falconnet1
1Institute of Organic Chemistry, RWTH Aachen, Landoltweg 1, 52074, Aachen, Germany.
Abstract:
A magnesium-catalyzed hydroboration of alkynes providing good yields and selectivities for a wide range of terminal and symmetrical and unsymmetrical internal alkynes has been developed. The compatibility with many functional groups makes this magnesium catalyzed procedure attractive for late stage functionalization. Experimental mechanistic investigations and DFT calculations reveal insights into the reaction mechanism of the magnesium catalyzed protocol.
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Alkynes to Aldehydes and Ketones: Hydroboration-Oxidation
One of the convenient methods for the preparation of aldehydes and ketones is via hydration of alkynes. Hydroboration-oxidation of alkynes is an indirect hydration reaction in which an alkyne is treated with borane followed by oxidation with alkaline peroxide to form an enol that rapidly converts into an aldehyde or a ketone. Terminal alkynes form aldehydes, whereas internal alkynes give ketones as the final product.
Alkynes to Aldehydes and Ketones: Acid-Catalyzed Hydration
Analogous to alkenes, alkynes also undergo acid-catalyzed hydration. While the addition of water to an alkene gives an alcohol, hydration of alkynes produces different products such as aldehydes and ketones.
Termination of Translation
Hydroboration-Oxidation of Alkenes
Regioselectivity and Stereochemistry of Hydroboration
Hydroboration proceeds in a concerted fashion with the attack of borane on the π bond, giving a cyclic four-centered transition state. The –BH2 group is bonded to the less substituted carbon and –H to the more substituted carbon. The concerted nature requires the simultaneous addition of –H and –BH2 across the same face of the alkene giving syn stereochemistry.
Nomenclature of Alkynes


