Palladium‐Catalyzed Regioselective Aerobic Allylic C−H Oxygenation: Direct Synthesis of α,β ‐Unsaturated Aldehydes and Allylic Alcohols

A protocol for the synthesis of α,β ‐unsaturated aldehydes and allylic alcohols from simple allylic hydrocarbons with water via palladium‐catalyzed functionalization of allylic C−H bonds was described. Molecular oxygen is utilized as the sole oxidant in this oxygenation of terminal alkenes. This protocol features good functional group compatibility, broad substrate scope, and high atom‐ and step‐economy. Moreover, the synthetic utility of this method can be highlighted by its application to the synthesis of ibuprofen, which is a highly potent analgesic.