“Low-coordinate” 1,2-oxaphosphetanes – a new opportunity in coordination and main group chemistry

Abstract

While 1,2σ⁵λ⁵-oxaphosphetanes are well known intermediates from the Wittig-reaction, no 1,2σ³λ³-oxaphosphetanes have been described, so far. Herein, we present the first synthesis of 1,2σ³λ³-oxaphosphetanes derived from their κP–Mo(CO)₅ complexes and first investigations towards metal coordination and P-oxidation. Bonding, ring strain energy and potential retro-[2+2] cycloaddition reactions of the 1,2-oxaphosphetane ring were studied by DFT methods.