Studies in the zinc reduction series: The reduction of certain 2‐benzoylbenzoic acids and esters

The reaction mechanism of the reduction o certain 2-benzoylbenzoic acids and esters is discussed. It is suggested that the carboxyl group directs product formation either by neighboring group participation or by facilitating the hydrogenolysis of the carbinol group. Furthermore, it is concluded that the intermediate in the reduction of the esters does not contain a carbinol group.