Mass spectrometry of beta-ketoesters. Some evidence of their tautomerism

Mass spectrometric evidence of tautomerism is reported for beta-ketoesters. The analysis of the corresponding mass spectra has allowed specific assignment of fragment ions to tautomers. The predictive value of this methodology is supported by the influence of substitution pattern of these compounds on these equilibria. Experimental data are strongly supported by Austin Model 1 semiempirical calculations indicating that mass spectrometry could be resourced as a tool for the investigation of tautomerism of neutral species in the gas phase.