Perfluorobicyclo[2.2.0]hex-1(4)-ene as unique partner for Diels–Alder reactions with benzene: a density functional theory study

The mechanism of the Diels–Alder reactions between perfluorobicyclo[2.2.0]hex-1(4)-ene (1a) and bicyclo[2.2.0]hex-1(4)-ene (1b) with benzene (2a) and naphthalene (2b) has been studied within the density functional theory at the MPWB1K/6-311G(d,p) level. The bonding pattern in these reactions is analyzed in the topology of the electron localization function within the bonding evolution theory perspective. The bonding electron density changes along the reaction paths reveal that the C–C bond formation takes place through a synchronous and non-concerted one-step mechanism and proceeds with a moderate activation energy. The reactivity order with 1a is 2a–2b. The reactions begin by the rupture of the double bond in the strained 1a-b molecules, and then two pseudoradical centers at the 1a-b fragments are created. Finally, at the same time, two new single bonds are formed in the cycloaddition products. The TSs proceed with high global electron density transfer providing a polar character at these reactions.