Boron trifluoride complex anion formation

In the case of the tricyclic epoxides la-c the outcome of the reaction depends on the ring size. The formation of 2 and 3 was explained by the following mechanism. Cleavage of the epoxide ring with boron trifluoride diethyl ether complex gives the zwitterionic intermediate 4. Subsequent transfer of fluoride anion to the cationic center C2 leads to fluoroborate 5 (path a), which is hydrolyzed to yield 2. Spiro ketone 3 is obtained by a 1,2-alkyl shift in 4 (path b). 

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