[grad05]

Hi,

I was just wondering if anyone might be able to help me with my confusion over the reactivity of Li/NH3.  I understand that this combination of reagents can reduce an alkyne into a trans-alkene,but will these same reagents reduce an alkene to an alkane??  More specifically, will Li/NH3 reduce 1-methyl-3-cyclopentene into a cyclopentane or possibly open up the cyclic compound in some manner??

[SVXX]

No, it doesn't reduce alkenes. For more info, -: http://www.chem.ucalgary.ca/courses/350/Carey5th/Ch09/ch9-7.html