Photo-induced alkylation of benzil with trialkyltin chlorides

Abstract Despite its higher oxidation potential, Bu3SnCl has been found to be a more effective Bu-transferring reagent than Bu4Sn in the photo-induced reaction of benzil in benzene. The attractive interaction between Bu3SnCl and benzil, especially in benzene, is a presumable reason for its higher reactivity. In contrast, Bu2SnCl2 and BuSnCl3 are poorly reactive in such a photoreaction.