Fe(III)-mediated isomerization of alpha, alpha-diarylallylic alcohols to ketones via radical 1,2-aryl migration

An Fe(III)-mediated radical 1,2-aryl migration of alpha, alpha-diarylallylic alcohols for the isomerization to ketones is described. The Fe(acac)(3)-silane would convert the alkene to an alkyl radical and initiates a 1,2-aryl migration-oxidation process. Thus Fe(acac)(3) serves as an olefin hydrogen atom transfer initiator and oxidant, while various allylic alcohols could isomerize to ketones in moderate to good yields.