Abstract
Abstract Cis-trans isomerization is one of the most common and well-investigated photoreaction of olefins in solution. This occurs via 180° rotation of one of the substituents on C C bond requiring large space around the double bond. One would expect that in crystals the neighboring molecules would prohibit such a process. In spite of this in early 1960s Schmidt and co-workers reported occurrence of such a process in crystals via 2 + 2 ‘meta cyclobutane’ formation. In this study by examining the photochemistry of four cis-stilbazolium salts we show that the photoconversion to the corresponding trans isomers does not occur via 2 + 2 addition. Large separation that ensures considerable space between neighboring olefins favors cis-trans isomerization in crystals. An aspect that is puzzling is that the product trans isomer phase separates and recrystallizes within the parent cis crystals and photodimerizes to the cyclobutane dimer. Details of this phenomenon are to be understood.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology A: Chemistry
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
