On the Mechanism of Oxidation by Cuprous Chloride, Pyridine and Air. I. The Properties of the Reaction

Abstract (1) By aerial oxidation of aniline catalyzed by cuprous chloride in a pyridine solution, azobenzene of about 60% is produced. In this reaction, the actual oxidant may be considered “oxidant A” which is produced by aerial oxidation of cuprous chloride pyridine complex. (2) Hydroxy cupric chloride pyridine complex, a reaction product of cupric chloride pyridine complex with a methyl alcohol solution of potassium hydroxide, has a similar catalytic activity. (3) These two complexes are to be considered strong bases. (4) These two complexes have a remarkable resemblance to each other.