Direct C-H metalation with chromium(II) and iron(II): transition-metal host/benzenediide guest magnetic inverse-crown complexes

Angew Chem Int Ed Engl. 2009;48(18):3317-21. doi: 10.1002/anie.200805566.

Abstract

Check M(etal)ate: The chessboard and the figures represent a special reaction in which different low-polarity metals can metalate arenes directly when they are brought into the right position. In a combination of queen (sodium) and knight (chromium or iron), it is possible for the knight (usually the weaker piece) to make a direct deadly hit on the king (benzene) in this game of elemental chess.