title: Metal ions do not play a direct role in the formation of carbon-carbon triple bonds during reduction of trihaloalkyls by Cr(II) or V(II).
abstract: Carbyne radicals: Reactions of trihaloalkyl compounds with Cr(2+) or V(2+) in aqueous solutions yield alkynes and other products. Stepwise halogen abstractions from the trihaloalkyls form alkyl carbyne triradicals in solution. These radicals undergo coupling reactions, producing triply bonded alkyne molecules (see scheme). This process is not metal-assisted and does not occur in the coordination sphere of the metal ions.
authors.affiliation: Institute of Chemistry, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Edmond J. Safra Campus, Givat Ram, 91904 Jerusalem, Israel.
authors.forename: Ophir
authors.initials: O
authors.lastname: Levy
authors.forename: Avi
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Bino