3.3.3 Reactions with Epoxides

The reaction of organolithium reagent with epoxides, a class of saturated carbon electrophiles, leads to the formation of alcohols via opening of the epoxide ring (similar to organomagnesium reagent) (Scheme 9).

Scheme 9

3.3.4 Reactions with Carbon Dioxide

In contrast to the process of organomagnesium reagent with CO₂ that stops at the carboxylate stage, the reaction with organolithium generates a ketone (Scheme 10).

Scheme 10

3.3.5 Reactions with Alkyl/Aryl Cyanide

As organomagnesium reagents, organolithium compound reacts with alkyl or aryl cyanides to give imine salts that on hydrolysis with water offer ketones (Scheme 11).

Scheme 11

3.3.6 Nucleophilic Displacement Reactions

The reaction of alkyl and aryl lithium reagents with alkyl halides offers hydrocarbons by either by S_N2 or radical mechanism (Scheme 12).

Scheme 12

While the reaction of aryl halides with aryl lithium occurs via addition-elimination process (Scheme 13).