A novel route to the synthesis of α,ω-diphenylalkanes

A novel route to the synthesis of α,ω-diphenylalkanes is reported. Toluene was metalated in the benzylic position by n-butyllithium with THF as an activating reagent, and then directly reacted with α,ω-dichloroalkanes to obtain the target product. This process provides a facile and efficient route to the synthesis of α,ω-diphenylalkanes.