7-Silicon effect stereochemical requirements

The methods available for synthesis have advanced dramatically in the past half-century. Improvements have been made in selectivity of conditions, versatility of transformations, stereochemical control, and the efficiency of synthetic processes. The range of available reagents has expanded. Many reactions involve compounds of boron, silicon, sulfur, selenium, phosphorus, and tin. Catalysis, particularly by transition metal complexes, has also become a key part of organic synthesis. The mechanisms of catalytic reactions are characterized by catalytic cycles and require an understanding not only of the ultimate bond-forming and bond-breaking steps, but also of the mechanism for regeneration of the active catalytic species and the effect of products, by-products, and other reaction components in the catalytic cycle. 

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