Phenylselenium azide addition to alkenes. A new and stereospecific introduction of Se and N into organic molecules.

The first examples of direct introduction of PhSe and N₃ functions by addition to olefins are reported. The addition of PhSeN₃ to simple alkenes, as well as to activated alkenes takes place in the absence of a catalyst. The reaction proceeds stereospecifically but not regiospecifically, apparently via a 3-membered selenonium ion intermediate.