Synthesis of 1-aryl-tetralins and 4-aryl-benzopyrans by sulfoxide-mediated benzylic carbocation cyclizations

An alkylation/cyclization sequence, with both steps mediated by the ortho-N-methylformamido-phenylsulfinyl function, provided two new C-C bonds and an efficient entry to 1-aryl-tetralins and 4-aryl-benzopyrans. Scope and limits of the process have been studied in detail.