Observation of diastereotopic signals in (15) N NMR spectroscopy.

The first example in the literature of a compound showing anisochronous (15) N atoms resulting from diastereotopicity is described. Racemic 1,3-dimethyl-2-phenyloctahydro-1H-benzimidazole was prepared and studied by (1) H, (13) C and (15) N NMR spectroscopy. If convenient conditions were used (monitored by theoretical calculations of (2) JN-H spin-spin coupling constants), two (15) N NMR signals were observed and corresponded to the diastereotopic atoms. GIAO/density-functional calculations of chemical shifts were not only in good agreement with the experimental values but also served as prediction tools. This study suggests that (15) N NMR spectroscopy could be used to probe chirality.