Hydrogenation Mechanism

This lecture covers the detailed reaction mechanism of hydrogenation, focusing on Wilkinson's catalyst. It explains the steps involved in the hydrogenation process, the role of different ligands, and the impact of solvent choice on catalytic activity. The instructor discusses the importance of steric and electronic factors in catalyst design, as well as the use of chiral phosphines for asymmetric hydrogenation. Mechanistic studies, solvent effects, and the influence of substituents on catalytic activity are also explored.