Acetylene–allene isomerisations. Part I. Base catalysis by potassium t-butoxide in t-butyl alcohol

Abstract

Isomerisation of hex-1-, -2-, and -3-yne, and hexa-1,2- and -2,3-diene catalysed by potassium t-butoxide in t-butyl alcohol (concentrating on the first 20% or so of isomerisation of the pure compounds) is reported. The experimental results are discussed as better evidence for the accepted stepwise acetylene–allene isomerisation than has been previously reported. Kinetic acidity of protons and stability of carbanions in this system is discussed.