Simple Acyclic Molecules Containing a Single Charge-Assisted O–H Group Can Recognize Anions in Acetonitrile:water Mixtures

Hydroxypyridinium and hydroxyquinolinium compounds containing acidic O–H groups attached to a cationic aromatic scaffold were synthesized, i.e. N-methyl-3-hydroxypyridinium (1+) and N-methyl-8-hydroxyquinolinium (2+). These very simple compounds are capable of binding to chloride very strongly in CD3CN and with moderate strength in 9:1 CD3CN:D2O. Comparison with known association constants reveal that... Show more