Formation of Methylene Linkage for N‑Heterocycles: Sequential C–H and C–O Bond Functionalization of Methanol with Cosolvent Water

An iron-catalyzed methylene forming strategy is disclosed through sequential C–H and C–O bond functionalization of methanol with cosolvent water. This protocol provides an easy and novel access to methylene-tethered imidazo­[1,2-a]­pyridine and 2-aminopyridine analogues in a sustainable manner and represents a complementary approach to traditional methylene forming strategies.