The range of in anisole derivatives. An indicator of torsion and compression of the methoxy group

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Abstract
In a series of anisole derivatives, [Formula: see text], the spin–spin coupling constant between the methyl protons and the ring proton in the ortho position, ranges from −0.23 to −0.38 Hz when the methyl group lies cis to the ortho C—H bond. 5J, as a proximate coupling, is sensitive to the average distance between the coupled protons. Its variation with substituent can be rationalized in terms of torsion about the Csp2—O bond and changes in the bond angles near the methoxy moiety. The theoretical 5J numbers can be empirically reproduced by a cos4 ψ function, where ψ is the angle by which the methoxy group twists out of the benzene plane. In general, large ortho substituents cause an increase in the magnitude of 5J (bond angle changes), strong π electron donors in the para position cause a decrease in the magnitude of 5J (increased torsional freedom), and π electron acceptors do the opposite (decreased torsions).

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