The Electron Paramagnetic Resonance Spectrum of the Phenalane Anion

Abstract

The phenalane anion has been prepared by the reaction of alkali metals in ether solutions of both phenalane and phenalene. The electron paramagnetic resonance spectra of both the radical and of its ion pairs with sodium and with lithium in THF are reported. At room temperature there is an alternating linewidth involving the β protons caused by conformational interconversion of the axial and equatorial positions. At −80 °C the γ protons are not equivalent and the corresponding coupling constants are resolved.