Synthesis of tetrasubstituted benzenes via rhodium(I)-catalysed ring-opening benzannulation of cyclobutenols with alkynes

A formal [4 + 2] annulation occurs between 1,3-disubstituted cyclobutenols and internal alkynes in the presence of rhodium(I) catalysts to afford 1,2,3,5-tetrasubstituted benzenes. These benzannulation products are generated through dehydration of the initially formed cyclohexadienols.