4-Methyl-2-nitrobenzaldehyde → trans-2,2'-Dinitro-4-methylstilbene

Participants

Reaction Steps

In a solution of 1.4 g. of sodium methylate in 40 ml. of ethanol, 6.8 g. of diethyl ortho-nitrobenzyl phosphonate was dissolved. While stirring the solution at ambient temperature, a solution of 4.1 g. of 2-nitro-4-methylbenzaldehyde in 40 ml. of ethanol was dropwise added. After being stirred for 1.5 hours and allowed to stand overnight, the yellow crystals formed were filtered and washed with a small amount of ethanol to give 6.0 g. (85% yield) of trans-2,2'-dinitro-4-methylstilbene melting at 170° to 171° C. (recrystallized from benzene).

Provenance & Evidence