A generic diazirine

Diazirines are a class of organic molecules consisting of a carbon bound to two nitrogen atoms, which are double-bonded to each other, forming a cyclopropane-like ring.

[edit] Reactions

Diazirines can be decomposited by using UV-light.

Diazirines are unstable in the presence of light, decaying upon laser flash photolysis to form the corresponding carbene and nitrogen gas.

[edit] Synthesis

Diazirines can be synthesized by the Graham reaction, from the corresponding amidine.