Synthesis and Solvolysis of 1-Bromobicyclo[1.1.1]pentane

1-Bromobicyclo[1.1.1]pentane (3) is found to undergo solvolysis faster than t-butyl bromide in 80% aqueous ethanol, and gives 3-methylenecyclobutanol (7) exclusively. Products arising from capture of the bicyclo[1.1.1] pentyl cation (5) were not detected.