Electron-transfer oxidation of organic compounds. Part 5. Oxidation of cyclohexanone by the tris-2,2′-bipyridylruthenium(III) cation

Abstract

Evidence is presented, from kinetic and product studies, that the rate-determining step in the oxidation of cyclohexanone by the trisbipyridylruthenium(III) cation is a non-bonded electron-transfer process from the enol form of the substrate. This gives rise to a free radical and a ruthenium(II) species. The subsequent fate of the radical has been investigated.