Abstract Metalation of toluene and isopropylbenzene with alkali metal-crown ether complexes led to the corresponding α-metalated alkylbenzenes. Treatment of the latter in succession with solid carbon dioxide, water, and hydrochloric acid gave carboxylic or dicarboxylic acids in 65–78% yield. Metalation of isopropylbenzene with sodium or potassium crown ether complexes above 90° C was accompanied by cleavage of the ...
