Pd(0)-catalyzed highly selective synthesis of 1,1-diarylpropadienes and 1,3-diarylpropynes from 1-aryl-1-propynes and aryl halides

Under different reaction conditions, 1,1-diarylpropadienes and 1,3-diarylpropynes can be prepared respectively by the sequential lithiation of 1-aryl-1-propynes, transmetalation, and the corresponding Pd(0)-catalyzed cross-coupling with aryl halides. A rationale for the formation of 1,3-diarylpropynes is proposed.