An Efficient and Selective Hydroarylation of Styrenes with Electron‐Rich Arenes, Catalyzed by Bismuth(III) Chloride and Affording Markovnikov Adducts

In the presence of BiCl 3 , the hydroarylation of styrenes with electron‐rich arenes afforded Markovnikov adducts selectively in good to high yields. Under arene‐free conditions, the intermolecular hydroarylation of α‐substituted styrenes and subsequent intramolecular hydroarylation produced the cyclic dimers of α‐substituted styrenes in good yields. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006)