https://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.08186
Principle that a chemical reaction is expected to occur with a minimum of bond changes or with a minimum redistribution of electrons (although more complex reaction cascades are also possible).
Example:
where the transfer of \(\ce{Cl}\) is accompanied by migration of only one carbon, rather than a more extensive molecular rearrangement involving migration of three methyls.
Source:
PAC, 2022, 94, 353. 'Glossary of terms used in physical organic chemistry (IUPAC Recommendations 2021)' on page 465 (https://doi.org/10.1515/pac-2018-1010)
PAC, 2022, 94, 353. 'Glossary of terms used in physical organic chemistry (IUPAC Recommendations 2021)' on page 465 (https://doi.org/10.1515/pac-2018-1010)