Illustrating Catalysis with Interlocking Building Blocks: A BINAP-Ruthenium Complex Catalyzed Asymmetric Hydrogenation

Horikoshi, R

A unique method has been developed using an interlocking building-block model equipped with magnets to illustrate the catalytic asymmetric hydrogenation of beta-keto esters by a BINAP-ruthenium complex to enhance students' understanding of this process. A BINAP-ruthenium block model, mimicking the coordination environment around the metal center in the real complex, can be used to convert the beta-keto ester model into a beta-hydroxy ester model. This model was used to provide a greater understanding of the essence of the catalytic reaction and to assist students in their understanding of its mechanism.

Journal of Chemical Education

AMER CHEMICAL SOC

92

2

332

335

10.1021/ed500484u

https://doi.org/10.1021/ed500484u
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