The Fundamental Role of Exchange‐Enhanced Reactivity in CH Activation by <i>S</i>=2 Oxo Iron(IV) Complexes

Abstract

High five: H-abstraction reactivity by oxo iron(IV) complexes with a quintet ground state is greatly enhanced by exchange stabilization arising from the increased number of d–d exchange interactions near the transition state (see picture). It is postulated that nonheme enzymes evolved to make use of this fundamental mechanism in activation of strong CH bonds.