Heteroarylation of Ethers, Amides, and Alcohols with Light and O2.

An efficient protocol for the Cα-H heteroarylation of ethers, amides, and alcohols using air and light under mild conditions is described. The reaction is applicable to a wide spectrum of functional groups. The generation of C-radicals via photoinduced aerobic oxidation of ethers, amides, and alcohols is the key feature of the process. Control experiments suggest a radical pathway for the reaction.