Asymmetric syntheses by Grignard compounds prepared in optically active solvents: Part I. Optically active monofunctional ethers

Grignard compounds, prepared in benzene in the presence of one molar equivalent of an ether derived from (‐) (S)‐2‐methylbutan‐1‐ol, yield optically active alcohols on reaction with aldehydes. A comparison is made with the optical activities of the products obtained when an optically active bifunctional ether ((+) (2 R:3 R)‐2,3‐dimethoxybutane) is used. A discussion is given of the reacting system.