Are mesoionic compounds aromatic?

Abstract

We have evaluated the experimental evidence relevant to the structure and character of mesoionic compounds, accumulated for more than 100 years and including X-ray diffraction studies. We have also evaluated relevant theoretical studies. All these, including our own extensive work, lead us to conclude that mesoionic compounds are not aromatic. According to our recent definition “mesoionic compounds are planar five-membered heterocyclic betaines with at least one side chain whose α-atom is also in the ring plane and with dipole moments of the order of 5 D. Electrons are delocalized over two regions separated by what are essentially single bonds. One region, which includes the a-atom of the side chain is associated with the HOMO and negative π-charge whereas the other is associated with the LUMO and positive π-charge.” Key words: mesoionic compounds, betaines, aromaticity.