Synthesis of benzo[c]chromen-6-ones via novel cyclic aryl–Pd(II)–ester enolate intermediates

The examination of the palladium catalysed arylation reactions of mono-iodo derivatives of the phenyl and benzyl esters of benzoic acid, phenylacetic acid and dehydrocinnamic acid has resulted in the formation of benzo[c]chromen-6-ones, unexpected cinnamate and succinate products and diphenyl dimers. Many of these products can be rationalised as arising from novel cyclic ArPd(II)–enolate intermediates, formed by intramolecular C–H activation by ArPd(II).