Pericyclic Reactions Part 3: Sigmatropic Shifts (Cope Rearrangement, Claisen Rearrangement)

The video tutorial explores cycloaddition reactions, focusing on the Diels Alder reaction and its formation of sigma bonds. It introduces sigmatropic shifts, highlighting their differences from cycloadditions, and explains the concept of three-three shifts with examples. The tutorial discusses the COPE rearrangement and methods to enhance sigmatropic shifts, such as incorporating ring strain and stabilizing products. It also covers the Claisen rearrangement, its variations, and applications in synthesizing gamma-delta unsaturated carbonyl compounds.

How does the oxycope rearrangement differ from the traditional COPE rearrangement?

What is the Claisen rearrangement and what type of compounds does it help synthesize?

Discuss the implications of substituents on the chair-like transition states in rearrangements.