Reactions of Gold(iii) Complexes with Alkenes in Aqueous Solution : Formation of ß-hydroxyalkylgold(III) Complexes

Historically, the chemistry of gold has been underappreciated due to its inert and noble nature. Recently, investigations of the chemical properties of gold complexes have undergone a renaissance, due largely to its activity as a catalyst for organic reactions involving unsaturated substrates. This manuscript describes experiments undertaken to aid in establishing the fundamental aspects of gold-alkene reactions in an aqueous environment. A brief overview of gold chemistry (focusing mainly on the +3 oxidation state) and the reactions of gold(III) complexes with simple, unactivated alkenes in solution is presented.