Formation of distinct iron hydrides via mechanistic divergence in directed C-H Bond activation of aryl ketones, esters and amides.

Directing groups play an important role in controlling the selectivity of C-H bond activation. Here we demonstrate that for iron, the nature of the directing group ( e.g. , ketone, ester, or amide) influences the C-H activation process. In this study the C-H bond activation step either occurs with or without the assistance of the directing group resulting in distinct cis - and trans -isomers of the corresponding iron hydride.