α-Iodoalkyl-Iodine-Ate Complexes as Observable Intermediates in the Iodine- Magnesium Exchange Reaction

Abstract

An intermediate with a half-life of 30 minutes has been observed in the iodine-magnesium exchange reaction of 1,1-diiodoalkanes in THF at -78°C. This intermediate is likely the ate complex 1. Its characteristic chemistry calls for a mechanistic reconsideration of several features of the halogen-metal exchange reaction.