A Route from 1,1,1,3-Tetrachloro-3-phenylpropane to Ethynyl Phenyl Ketone Involving Elimination of Hydrogen Chloride and 1,3-Proton Transfer

The treatment of 1,1,1,3-tetrachloro-3-phenylpropane with alkali in ethanol affords ethynyl phenyl ketone and its acetal in good yields. This reaction proceeds through the elimination of hydrogen chloride and an efficient 1,3-proton transfer catalyzed by base. Ethyl cinnamate is obtained in only 2% yield.