Defining the Conformation of Lewis Acid/Lewis Base Complex: Crystallographic Evidence for Simultaneous σ and π Donation by a Carbonyl Group to a Divalent Boron Lewis Acid

Abstract

An additional π-symmetry interaction can define the conformation of a complex formed between a carbonyl compound and a Lewis acid. This was demonstrated in studies of the borabanzene adduct 1 in solution and in the solid state. Studies like this are relevant to the design of effective chiral Lewis acid catalysts.