The invention relates to a novel method for high-selectivity synthesis of a p-
terphenyl derivative through
cascade cyclization of
dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) serving as two C sources and
aryl ketone in a multi-component form under the promotion of
potassium tert-butoxide. According to the method, only strong base
potassium tert-butoxide is used as an
accelerant, and complex ligands and expensive
metal reagents are prevented from being used. Meanwhile, the formal [1 + 2 + 2 + 1]
cascade cyclization reaction is suitable for various substrates, has good tolerance to various
substituent groups, and can provide p-
terphenyl derivatives which are easy to obtain at a good yield. In addition, the reaction also has the characteristics of low additive price, simple
reaction conditions, easily available initial raw materials and the like. According to the method, a multi-group hierarchical cyclization protocol is carried out on starting raw materials which are easy to purchase commercially at lower cost, and the p-
terphenyl compounds with multiple
substituent groups are synthesized.