Studies in crystal engineering: topochemical photodimerization of (±)-p-fluorobenzylidenepiperitone

Abstract

The effect of fluoro substitution on the nature of crystal packing and the solid state photo-behaviour of the title non-planar molecule is examined. The steering capability of fluorine and the role of molecular topology in crystal packing are discussed. Crystallographic evidence for a C–H ⋯ F hydrogen bond is provided.