Direct synthesis of methylene-1,2-dichalcogenolanes via radical [3 + 2] cycloaddition of methylenecyclopropanes with elemental chalcogens.

Direct [3 + 2] radical cycloaddition of methylenecyclopropanes and elemental chalcogens (S, Se, Te) can readily occur under simple thermal conditions, providing an efficient, practical method for preparation of useful but not easily accessed methylene-1,2-dichalcogenolanes.