The Molecular Structure of Allenes and Ketenes, IX [1] π and σ Interactions in Allenes: Photoelectron Spectra, Electronic Absorption Spectra, and Quantum‐Chemical Calculations

Abstract

The electronic structure of monosubstituted allenes has been investigated by means of photoelectron and UV absorption spectroscopy.—The assignment of the photoelectron and UV absorption bands is achieved on the basis of a “composite molecule” (LCMO) model and substantiated by comparisons with structurally related molecules.—Assuming the validity of Koopmans' approximation for the interpretation of photoelectron spectra the π electronic structure of allenes can be rationalized quantitatively in terms of a three‐parameter model of substituent effects which involves short‐range and long‐range inductive effects and resonance effects.—The substituent effect on the highest‐occupied σ orbital of allenes is shown to be essentially an electrostatic (long‐range) field effect. The interpretation of low‐energy ¹A” excited states of allenes is achieved via a correlation of UV spectroscopic and photoelectron spectroscopic data.—The interpretation of experimental results is corroborated and refined by semiempirical (CNDO/S) and ab initio (STO‐3G and STO‐4.31G) calculations.—In general, there are analogies of the molecular properties of allenes with those of ethylenes and benzenederivatives and with those of carbonylcompounds and acetylenes.