Diphenyldiazomethanes (2a-N2) having phenyl groups at the ortho positions were prepared and the corresponding diphenylcarbenes (2a) photolytically generated from them were characterized not only by the traditional product analysis method but also by ESR and UV/vis spectroscopy in a rigid organic matrix at low temperature and in laser flash photolysis in solution at room temperature. Product analysis indicated that fluorenes 4a are formed ...