Structure and dynamics of intermediates in asymmetric hydrogenation by rhodium complexes of (2-methoxyphenyl)-P-phenyl-P-(2′-diphenylphosphino)ethylphosphine

Abstract

The four rhodium enamide complexes formed from the title ligand and methyl Z-acetamidocinnamate undergo rapid pair-specific intramolecular exchange and give rise to a single alkylhydride under hydrogen below –40 °C.