Space Constrained Stereoselective Geometric Isomerization of 1,2-Diphenylcyclopropane and Stilbenes in an Aqueous Medium

Confinement provided by the reaction space alters the photostationary state isomer distribution during the geometric isomerization of excited 1,2-diphenylcyclopropane and stilbenes. The selectivity in 1,2-diphenylcyclopropane is suggested to result from the supramolecular steric hindrance exerted by the medium for the rotational motion. The alteration in the selectivity between a dimethyl and n-propyl substituted stilbenes is attributed to the medium influence on the location of the transition state on the ground state surface.