A tandem oximation–cyclization route to Δ2-isoxazolines

3,5-Disubstituted Δ2-isoxazolines can be prepared from the corresponding β,γ-unsaturated ketones by treatment with hydroxylamine hydrochloride and sodium hydroxide. Evidence indicates that the mechanism of this reaction involves the formation of three intermediates; oximation of the ketone, rearrangement of the alkene, and intramolecular Michael addition of the resulting α,β-unsaturated oxime.