Urinary steroids. Part VII. The Zimmermann reaction of oxo-steroids and related compounds: a correlation of structure and stereochemistry with reactivity

Abstract

The behaviour of a number of different types of oxo-steroids and related ketones in the Zimmermann reaction (with m-dinitrobenzene and alkali) depends upon the nature and substitution of the ring carrying the oxo-group, and upon its stereochemical relationship to the adjoining ring. The ketones are classified according to their structure and stereochemistry, each type exhibiting a characteristic colour intensity and stability, expressed by absorption curves after reaction for 5 min. and 60 min. The results are discussed in terms of present knowledge concerning the mechanism of the reaction.