The Kowalski ester homologation is a chemical reaction for the homologation of esters.[1][2]
This reaction was designed as a safer alternative to the Arndt-Eistert synthesis. The Kowalski reaction is named after its inventor, Conrad J. Kowalski.
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The mechanism is disputed.
A modification of the procedure has been described that results in higher yields.[3]
By changing the reagent in the second step of the reaction, the Kowalski ester homologation can also be used for the preparation of silyl ynol ethers.