Electron density distribution in molecules of 4-aryl-substituted [2.2]paracyclophanes and regioselectivity of their complexation with Cr(CO)3

Charges on carbon atoms in the molecules of 4-aryl-substituted [2.2]paracyclophanes were estimated and the role of charge control as a kinetic factor in regioselectivity of their complexation with (NH3)3Cr(CO)3 was investigated using electron density distribution analysis by the Bader, Weinhold-Reed (NPA), and Mulliken methods. The most plausible picture of the electron density distribution in substituted [2.2]paracyclophanes was obtained by the Bader method and compared with experimental data on the yields of reaction products. Topological analysis of the electron density distribution in the [2.2]paracyclophane molecule by the Bader method confirmed the existence of a weak antibonding interaction between the stacked benzene rings.