Diphenylphosphinous

Diphenylphosphinous is an organophosphorus compound with the chemical formula (C6H5)2PH. It is a colorless liquid that is sensitive to air and moisture. The compound features a phosphorus atom bonded to two phenyl groups and one hydrogen atom. This trivalent phosphorus center makes it a nucleophile and a reducing agent. Diphenylphosphinous can be prepared by the reduction of diphenylphosphinous chloride. It is a precursor in the synthesis of various organophosphorus compounds, including phosphine ligands used in catalysis. For example, it can react with electrophiles to form new phosphorus-carbon or phosphorus-heteroatom bonds. Due to its air sensitivity, it is typically handled under an inert atmosphere. The chemical reactivity of diphenylphosphinous is characteristic of secondary phosphines, readily undergoing oxidation to form diphenylphosphinous oxide or diphenylphosphinic acid in the presence of oxygen. Its derivatives find applications in areas such as coordination chemistry and organic synthesis.