Synthesis and Some Reactions of 2‐Acyl‐2‐alkyl‐1,3‐dithiolane 1,1‐Dioxides

The selective formation of optically active 2‐acyl‐2‐alkyl‐1,3‐dithiolane 1,1‐dioxides from the corresponding 2‐acyl‐2‐alkyl‐1,3‐dithiolane 1‐oxides, by reaction with OsO₄ and NMO in acetone, is reported. These compounds underwent stereoselective reactions at the carbonyl group of the acyl group with organometallic reagents. These reactions were completely regioselective, and no attack at either of the S‐atoms was observed, unlike similar reactions with the corresponding sulfoxides. The nature of the metal atom had a direct effect upon the configuration of the product alcohols.