Recent Advances and Prospects in the Chemistry of o‐Benzoquinones

Abstract Ortho ‐benzoquinones play a vital role as reactive intermediate having high electrophilic character. Sterically crowded 1,2‐benzoquinones and their derivatives exhibiting divergent functionality have marked attraction in organic synthesis. Their intermolecular Diels‐Alder reactions reflect wide versatile applications. They act as a powerful tool towards the synthesis of biologically active complex heterocyclic ligands. This review focuses on the various novel advancements in the synthesis, reactions and applications of 1,2‐benzoquinones that have been achieved recently.