The p-keto sulfone 5 was found to be a more satisfactory intermediate than the corresponding p-keto sulfoxide 4 for the preparation of the tricyclic hydroxy ketone 1. Examination of several simpler 8-keto sulfones 14, 16, and 18 indicated that the preparation and C-alkylation of these materials occur as readily as the reactions involving the corresponding p-keto sulfoxides. The 8-keto sulfones are more stable to oxidation and ...
