Condensation reaction of C 4H 4+ with pyridine

Abstract

C 4H 4 + reacts with pyridine (C 5H 5N) via the channels of proton transfer, charge transfer and condensation with H-elimination. The condensation reaction is of general interest in terms of basic chemistry and is the focus of the present study. By means of theoretical calculations and Fourier transform mass spectrometer experiments using deuterated pyridine and substituted pyridines, the structure of the product ion and the reaction pathways are investigated. From the experimental results we find that the H atom that is eliminated can originate from either pyridine or C 4H 4 +. The experiments show that elimination of an H atom from C 4H 4 + is preferred and that there is an observable kinetic isotope effect. By replacing H atoms with methyl groups in ortho positions of pyridine, the experimental results also suggest possible steric blocking to the condensation. Based on the experimental observations and results of theoretical calculations of several possible structures of intermediates, transition states, and final product ions, a possible reaction scheme for the condensation-H-elimination is discussed.