Synthesis of functionalized 2,3-dihydroisoxazoles by domino reactions in water and unexpected ring-opening reactions of 2,3-dihydroisoxazoles.

α,α-Dicyanoolefins react with hydroxylamine to afford 2,3-dihydroisoxazoles (2,3-dihydroisoxazoles can be easily isolated by filtration) in excellent yields under mild and environmentally benign conditions. A one-pot reaction in tandem with an unexpected ring-opening of 2,3-dihydroisoxazoles has been developed as well.