Mechanism of the conversion of 2-nitrobenzyl systems into 2,1-benzisoxazoles

Abstract

2-Nitrophenyl derivatives are converted into 2,1-benzisoxazoles via an intermediate which arises from an internal oxidation–reduction reaction; subsequent loss of water or ROH gives the benzisoxazole. The initial step is addition of an oxygen atom from the o-nitro-group to the α-carbon.