Methyl Transfer Reactions

Abstract

The Marcus theory is applied to the transfer of the methyl group in S N 2 reactions. Data from 28 reactions are shown to obey the theory. The symmetry of the transition state for these reactions can then be deduced. The use of charge development, the solvent isotope effect, the a deuterium isotope effect and Hammett relations to locate the transition state are also discussed. The information from the various probes is reconciled and the tightness, as well as the symmetry, of each transition state is found. © 1979, Walter de Gruyter. All rights reserved.