What are Some Key Catalytic Reactions Involving Carbene Complexes?
Transition metal carbene complexes are central to several important catalytic reactions:
Olefin Metathesis: This reaction involves the redistribution of olefins, significantly applied in the synthesis of polymers, pharmaceuticals, and petrochemicals. Cyclopropanation: Carbene complexes are used to introduce cyclopropane rings into organic molecules, which are valuable intermediates in organic synthesis. C-H Activation: These complexes facilitate the activation of C-H bonds, a critical step in the functionalization of hydrocarbons. Carbene Transfer Reactions: These involve the transfer of a carbene fragment from a metal complex to a substrate, a key step in many organic transformations.
