Publisher's Synopsis
Examining the synthesis of optically active compounds, this monograph advocates the use of asymmetric techniques in the determination of absolute configuration and in practical synthesis. Beginning with a summary of the ways optically active compounds can be obtained, the author covers the characteristic features of asymmetric reactions and the behaviour of enantiomers under chiral conditions. Prelog's, Horeau's and other methods which are of special interest in the determination of absolute configurations of chiral alcohols and amines are examined.;The text also contains coverage of stoichiometric methods, related reactions and reductions by metal hydrides. The author concentrates on practical applications of the methods. The text concludes with coverage of the problems of asymmetric reactions, providing a brief survey of chiral products which can be obtained by stereoselective biocatalyic reactions.
