The electronic structure and reactivity of alkenes

The modern methods for the calculation of the electronic structures of alkenes are examined. The photoelectron spectra of alkenes are analysed and the relation between the properties of molecules and their orbital structure is discussed on the basis of experimental data and quantum-chemical calculations. The corresponding structural parameters of alkenes are systematically compared with their reactivities. The ionisation energies of alkenes are presented. © 1992 IOP Publishing Ltd.