Straight chain aryl ketones, such as 1 , undergo trans-cis isomerism upon exposure to light, presumably via the formation of 1,2-biradicals. These 1,2-biradicals are stabilized by the two carbon center radical being orthogonal to each other to minimize the interaction between the two radicals. Currently, we are investigating whether 1,2-biradicals can be formed selectively in ring systems. We are also studying the effect of ring and angle strain on the formation and stability of the biradicals. We will present product studies, laser flash photolysis and theoretical calculation to identify the intermediates formed upon exposing molecules 2   and 3  to light.

Investigating the formation and properties of strained biradicals in ring systems with the aid of laser flash photolysis

245th National Meeting (2013)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.