One-step synthesis of 2-aryl-4,5-diphenylimidazoles under microwave irradiation

A series of 2-aryl-4,5-diphenylimidazoles were synthesized by a one-step condensation reaction of benzil, aromatic aldehyde, and ammonium acetate in acetic acid under microwave irradiation. The reactions were completed in 4-11 min with good yields and easy workup.