RP/I2 reaction

[PolytheneSam]

Here's a process I've seen a couple times in various experimental organic chemistry books (including the one I've had for 25 years):  the reduction of benzilic acid with red phosphorus and iodine.  Also see US patent 3084099.



From Elementary Laboratory Experiments in Organic Chemistry by R. Adams and J. R. Johnson, The Macmillan company, 1945

Also see: 

Post 199822 (missing)

(PolytheneSam: "Re: better understanding", Newbee Forum)

Post 199835 (missing)

(PolytheneSam: "Re: better understanding", Newbee Forum)
http://www.geocities.com/dritte123/PSPF.html

[dickdastardly]

So where do YOu get Benzilic Acid at

[Rhodium]

Synthesis of benzilic acid:

https://www.thevespiary.org/rhodium/Rhodium/chemistry/dimenoxadol.html

(at the bottom of the page). What do you need it for?