Synthesis and reactions of the cis- and trans-oxides derived from 3-(benzyloxy methyl)cyclohexene

The synthesis of cis- and trans-3-(benzyloxymethyl)-1, 2-epoxycyclohexanes allows the study of their nucleophilic addition reactions. In the presence of a metallic salt catalyst, the cis-epoxide forms chelate intermediates which invite a nucleophilic attack on the C-1 oxirane carbon, resulting in ring cleavage. Its preference for chelation thus sterically directs the site of cleavage. The trans-epoxide, on the other hand, is prevented from undergoing chelation reactions due to its conformation. Its ring opening reactions are based on steric factors alone.