Summary 1. A mechanism for the formation of aryl-cunaphthols, such as I and 11, from diphenylketene and arylacetylenes, has been suggested. While not proved, this mechanism is in accord with all the available facts concerning this reaction. It explains why a-and not/?- naphthols are formed, why the aryl group of the acetylene occupies the 3-position in the naphthol; why mono-as well as di-arylacetylenes undergo the reaction and it does not ...
