The reactivity of a variety of trans-1, 2-diarylethenes with thionyl chloride has been investigated. All the substrates could readily afford 3-chlorobenzo [b] thiophenes in moderate yields and a pair of threo-and erythro-1, 2-dichloro-1, 2-diarylethanes as the minor products under mild condition. The diastereoisomers of 1, 2-dichloro-1, 2-diarylethanes with a methoxy group on the benzene ring were found for the first time to be also converted into ...