Olefin metathesis

Organic reaction involving the breakup and reassembly of alkene double bonds

In organic chemistry, olefin metathesis or alkene metathesis is an organic reaction that entails the redistribution of fragments of alkenes (olefins) by the breaking and regeneration of carbon-carbon double bonds. Because of the relative simplicity of olefin metathesis, it often creates fewer undesired by-products and hazardous wastes than alternative organic reactions. For their elucidation of the reaction mechanism and their discovery of a variety of highly active catalysts, Yves Chauvin, Robert H. Grubbs, and Richard R. Schrock were collectively awarded the 2005 Nobel Prize in Chemistry.

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