Superelectrophilic tetrakis(carbonyl)palladium(II)- and -platinum(II) undecafluorodiantimonate(V), [Pd(CO)4][Sb(2)F(11)]2 and [Pt(CO)4][Sb(2)F(11)]2: syntheses, physical and spectroscopic properties, their crystal, molecular, and extended structures, and density functional calculations: an experimental, computational, and comparative study .

The salts [M(CO)(4)][Sb(2)F(11)](2), M = Pd, Pt, are prepared by reductive carbonylation of Pd[Pd(SO(3)F)(6)], Pt(SO(3)F)(4) or PtF(6) in liquid SbF(5), or HF-SbF(5). The resulting moisture-sensitive, colorless solids are thermally stable up to 140 degrees C (M = Pd) or 200 degrees C (M = Pt). Their thermal decompositions are studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Single crystals of both salts are suitable for an X-ray diffraction study at 180 K. Both isostructural salts crystallize in the monoclinic space group P2(1)/c (No. 14). The unit cell volume of [Pt(CO)(4)][Sb(2)F(11)](2) is smaller than that of [Pd(CO)(4)][Sb(2)F(11)](2) by about 0.4%. The cations [M(CO)(4)](2+), M = Pd, Pt, are square planar with only very slight angular and out-of-plane deviations from D(4)(h)() symmetry. The interatomic distances and bond angles for both cations are essentially identical. The [Sb(2)F(11)](-) anions in [M(CO)(4)][Sb(2)F(11)](2,) M = Pd, Pt, are not symmetry-related, and both pairs differ in their Sb-F-Sb bridge angles and their dihedral angles. There are in each salt four to five secondary interionic C- -F contacts per CO group. Of these, two contacts per CO group are significantly shorter than the sum of the van der Waals radii by 0.58 - 0.37 A. In addition, structural, and spectroscopic details of recently synthesized [Rh(CO)(4)][Al(2)Cl(7)] are reported. The cations [Rh(CO)(4)](+) and [M(CO)(4)](2+), M = Pd, Pt, are characterized by IR and Raman spectroscopy. Of the 16 vibrational modes (13 observable, 3 inactive) 10 (Pd, Pt) or 9 (Rh), respectively, are found experimentally. The vibrational assignments are supported by DFT calculations, which provide in addition to band positions also intensities of IR bands and Raman signals as well as internal force constants for the cations. (13)C NMR measurements complete the characterization of the square planar metal carbonyl cations. The extensive characterization of [M(CO)(4)][Sb(2)F(11)](2), M = Pd, Pt, reported here, allows a comparison to linear and octahedral [M(CO)(n)()][Sb(2)F(11)](2) salts [M = Hg (n = 2); Fe, Ru, Os (n = 6)] and their derivatives, which permit a deeper understanding of M-CO bonding in the solid state for superelectrophilic cations with [Sb(2)F(11)](-) or [SbF(6)](-) as anions.     

Homoleptic, sigma-bonded octahedral [M(CO)(6)](2+) cations of iron(II), ruthenium(II), and osmium(II). Part 1: Syntheses, thermochemical and vibrational characterizations, and molecular structures as [Sb(2)F(11)](-) and [SbF(6)](-) salts. A comprehensive, comparative study

Homoleptic octahedral, superelectrophilic sigma-bonded metal carbonyl cations of the type [M(CO)(6)](2+) (M = Ru, Os) are generated in the Bronsted-Lewis conjugate superacid HF/SbF(5) by reductive carbonylation of M(SO(3)F)(3) (M = Ru, Os) or OsF(6). Thermally stable salts form with either [Sb(2)F(11)](-) or [SbF(6)](-) as anion, just as for the previously reported [Fe(CO)(6)](2+) cation. The latter salts are generated by oxidative (XeF(2)) carbonylation of Fe(CO)(5) in HF/SbF(5). A rationale for the two diverging synthetic approaches is provided. The thermal stabilities of [M(CO)(6)][SbF(6)](2) salts, studied by DSC, range from 180 degrees C for M = Fe to 350 degrees C for M = Os before decarbonylation occurs. The two triads [M(CO)(6)][SbF(6)](2) and [M(CO)(6)][Sb(2)F(11)](2) (M = Fe, Ru, Os) are extensively characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction and vibrational and (13)C NMR spectroscopy, aided by computational studies of the cations. The three [M(CO)(6)][SbF(6)](2) salts (M = Fe, Ru, Os) crystallize in the tetragonal space group P4/mnc (No. 128), whereas the corresponding [Sb(2)F(11)](-) salts are monoclinic, crystallizing in space group P2(1)/n (No. 14). In both triads, the unit cell parameters are nearly invariant of the metal. Bond parameters for the anions [SbF(6)](-) and [Sb(2)F(11)](-) and their vibrational properties in the two triads are completely identical. In all six salts, the structural and vibrational properties of the [M(CO)(6)](2+) cations (M = Fe, Ru, Os) are independent of the counteranion and for the most part independent of M and nearly identical. Interionic C...F contacts are similarly weak in all six salts. Metal dependency is noted only in the (13)C NMR spectra, in the skeletal M-C vibrations, and to a much smaller extent in some of the C-O stretching fundamentals (A(1g) and T(1u)). The findings reported here are unprecedented among metal carbonyl cations and their salts.     

Preparation and characterization of the argentates: [Ag[P(CF(3))(2)](2)](-), [Ag[(micro-P(CF(3))(2))M(CO)(5)](2)](-) (M = Cr, W), and [Ag[(micro-P(C(6)F(5))(2))W(CO)(5)](2)](-): X-ray crystal structure of [K(18-crown-6)][Ag[(micro-P(CF(3))(2))Cr(CO)(5)](2)

The first example of a mononuclear diphosphanidoargentate, bis[bis(trifluoromethyl)phosphanido]argentate, [Ag[P(CF(3))(2)](2)](-), is obtained via the reaction of HP(CF(3))(2) with [Ag(CN)(2)](-) and isolated as its [K(18-crown-6)] salt. When the cyclic phosphane (PCF(3))(4) is reacted with a slight excess of [K(18-crown-6)][Ag[P(CF(3))(2)](2)], selective insertion of one PCF(3) unit into each silver phosphorus bond is observed, which on the basis of NMR spectroscopic evidence suggests the [Ag[P(CF(3))P(CF(3))(2)](2)](-) ion. On treatment of the phosphane complexes [M(CO)(5)PH(CF(3))(2)] (M = Cr, W) with [K(18-crown-6)][Ag(CN)(2)], the analogous trinuclear argentates, [Ag[(micro-P(CF(3))(2))M(CO)(5)](2)](-), are formed. The chromium compound [K(18-crown-6)][Ag[(micro-P(CF(3))(2))Cr(CO)(5)](2)] crystallizes in a noncentrosymmetric space group Fdd2 (No. 43), a = 2970.2(6) pm, b = 1584.5(3) pm, c = 1787.0(4), V = 8.410(3) nm(3), Z = 8. The C(2) symmetric anion, [Ag[(micro-P(CF(3))(2))Cr(CO)(5)](2)](-), shows a nearly linear arrangement of the P-Ag-P unit. Although the bis(pentafluorophenyl)phosphanido compound [Ag[P(C(6)F(5))(2)](2)](-) has not been obtained so far, the synthesis of its trinuclear counterpart, [K(18-crown-6)][Ag[(micro-P(C(6)F(5))(2))W(CO)(5)](2)], was successful.     

Preparation and characterization of [Hg[P(C6F5)2]2], [Hg[(mu-P(C6F5)2)W(CO)5]2], and [Hg[(mu-P(CF3)2)W(CO)5]2] and the X-ray crystal structure of [Hg[(mu-P(C6F5)2)W(CO)5]2].2DMF

The thermally unstable compound [Hg[P(C(6)F(5))(2)](2)] was obtained from the reaction of mercury cyanide and bis(pentafluorophenyl)phosphane in DMF solution and characterized by multinuclear NMR spectroscopy. The thermally stable trinuclear compounds [Hg[(mu-P(CF(3))(2))W(CO)(5)](2)] and [Hg[(mu-P(C(6)F(5))(2))W(CO)(5)](2)] are isolated and completely characterized. The higher order NMR spectra exhibiting multinuclear satellite systems have been sufficiently analyzed. [Hg[(mu-P(CF(3))(2))W(CO)(5)](2)].2DMF crystallizes in the monoclinic space group C2/c with a = 2366.2(3) pm, b = 1046.9(1) pm, c = 104.0(1) pm, and beta = 104.01(1) degrees. Structural, NMR spectroscopic, and vibrational data prove a weak coordination of the two DMF molecules. Structural, vibrational, and NMR spectroscopic evidence is given for a successive weakening of the pi back-bonding effect of the W-P bond in the order [W(CO)(5)PH(R(f))(2)], [Hg[(mu-P(R(f))(2))W(CO)(5)](2)], and [W[P(R(f))(2)](CO)(5)](-) with R(f) = C(6)F(5) and CF(3). The pi back-bonding effect of the W-C bonds increases vice versa.     

Cationic carbonyl complexes of rhodium(I) and rhodium(III): syntheses,vibrational spectra,NMR studies,and molecular structures of tetrakis(carbonyl)rhodium(I) heptachlorodialuminate and -gallate, [Rh(CO)4][Al2Cl7] and [Rh(CO)4][Ga2Cl7

Dimeric rhodium(I) bis(carbonyl) chloride, [Rh(CO)(2)(mu-Cl)](2), is found to be a useful and convenient starting material for the syntheses of new cationic carbonyl complexes of both rhodium(I) and rhodium(III). Its reaction with the Lewis acids AlCl(3) or GaCl(3) produces in a CO atmosphere at room temperature the salts [Rh(CO)(4)][M(2)Cl(7)] (M = Al, Ga), which are characterized by Raman spectroscopy and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Crystal data for [Rh(CO)(4)][Al(2)Cl(7)]: triclinic, space group Ponemacr; (No. 2); a = 9.705(3), b = 9.800(2), c = 10.268(2) A; alpha = 76.52(2), beta = 76.05(2), gamma = 66.15(2) degrees; V = 856.7(5) A(3); Z = 2; T = 293 K; R(1) [I > 2sigma(I)] = 0.0524, wR(2) = 0.1586. Crystal data for [Rh(CO)(4)][Ga(2)Cl(7)]: triclinic, space group Ponemacr; (No. 2); a = 9.649(1), b = 9.624(1), c = 10.133(1) A; alpha = 77.38(1), beta = 76.13(1), gamma = 65.61(1) degrees; V = 824.4(2) A(3); Z = 2; T = 143 K; R(1) [I > 2sigma(I)] = 0.0358, wR(2) = 0.0792. Structural parameters for the square planar cation [Rh(CO)(4)](+) are compared to those of isoelectronic [Pd(CO)(4)](2+) and of [Pt(CO)(4)](2+). Dissolution of [Rh(CO)(2)Cl](2) in HSO(3)F in a CO atmosphere allows formation of [Rh(CO)(4)](+)((solv)). Oxidation of [Rh(CO)(2)Cl](2) by S(2)O(6)F(2) in HSO(3)F results in the formation of ClOSO(2)F and two seemingly oligomeric Rh(III) carbonyl fluorosulfato intermediates, which are easily reduced by CO addition to [Rh(CO)(4)](+)((solv)). Controlled oxidation of this solution with S(2)O(6)F(2) produces fac-Rh(CO)(3)(SO(3)F)(3) in about 95% yield. This Rh(III) complex can be reduced by CO at 25 degrees C in anhydrous HF to give [Rh(CO)(4)](+)((solv)); addition of SbF(5) at -40 degrees C to the resulting solution allows isolation of [Rh(CO)(4)][Sb(2)F(11)], which is found to have a highly symmetrical (D(4)(h)()) [Sb(2)F(11)](-) anion. Oxidation of [Rh(CO)(2)Cl](2) in anhydrous HF by F(2), followed in a second step by carbonylation in the presence of SbF(5), is found to be a simple, straightforward route to pure [Rh(CO)(5)Cl][Sb(2)F(11)](2), which has previously been structurally characterized by us. All new complexes are characterized by vibrational and NMR spectroscopy. Assignment of the vibrational spectra and interpretation of the structural data are supported by DFT calculations.     

Homoleptic, sigma-bonded octahedral superelectrophilic metal carbonyl cations of iron(II), ruthenium(II), and osmium(II). Part 2: Syntheses and characterizations of [M(CO)(6)][BF(4)](2) (M = Fe, Ru, Os)

As the first examples of homoleptic, sigma-bonded superelectrophilic metal carbonyl cations with tetrafluoroborate [BF(4)](-) as the counter anions three thermally stable salts of the composition [M(CO)(6)][BF(4)](2) (M = Fe, Ru, Os) have been synthesized and extensively characterized by thermochemical, structural, and spectroscopic methods. A common synthetic route, the oxidative carbonylation of either Fe(CO)(5) (XeF(2) as the oxidizer) or M(3)(CO)(12) (M = Ru, Os) (F(2) as the oxidizer) in the conjugate Bronsted-Lewis superacid HF/BF(3), was employed. The thermal behavior of the three salts, studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and gas-phase IR spectroscopy of the decomposition products, has been compared to that of the corresponding [SbF(6)](-) salts. The molecular structures of [M(CO)(6)][BF(4)](2) (M = Fe, Os) were obtained by single-crystal X-ray diffraction at 100 K. X-ray powder diffraction data for [M(CO)(6)][BF(4)](2) (M = Ru, Os) were obtained between 100 and 300 K in intervals of 50 K. All three salts are isostructural and crystallized in the tetragonal space group I4/m (No. 87). As for the corresponding [M(CO)(6)][SbF(6)](2) salts (M = Fe, Ru, Os), similar unit cell parameters and vibrational fundamentals were also found for the three [BF(4)](-) compounds. For the structurally characterized salts [M(CO)(6)][BF(4)](2) (M = Fe, Os), very similar bond parameters for both cations and anions were found. Hence, the invariance of structural and spectroscopic properties of [M(CO)(6)](2+) cations (M = Fe, Ru, Os) extended from the fluoroantimonates [Sb(2)F(11)](-) and [SbF(6)](-) as counteranions also to [BF(4)](-).     

The synthesis,vibrational spectra,and molecular structure of [Ir(CO)(6)][SbF(6)](3).4HF - the first structurally characterized salt with a tripositive,homoleptic metal carbonyl cation and the first example of a tetrahedral hydrogen-bonded (HF)(4) cluster

The reductive carbonylation of IrF(6) in a dilute solution of SbF(5) in anhydrous HF (1:6 by volume) produces surprisingly at 25 degrees C and 1.5 atm CO the complex salt [Ir(CO)(6)][SbF(6)](3).4HF, while [Ir(CO)(6)][Sb(2)F(11)](3) is obtained in liquid SbF(5) under similar conditions. Vibrational spectra in the CO stretching range for both salts and [Ir(CO)(6)](3+)((solv)) are identical within error limits, and nu(CO)(av) is with 2269 cm(-1) the highest average stretching frequency so far observed for octahedral metal carbonyl cations. A vibrational assignment supported by DFT calculations is presented, and the vibrational fundamentals are compared to those of [Os(CO)(6)](2+). The molecular structure of [Ir(CO)(6)][SbF(6)](3).4HF is determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Crystal data for [Ir(CO)(6)][SbF(6)](3).4HF: rhombohedral, R3c (No. 161), a = 14.630(4) A, c = 18.377(7) A, V = 3406.4(18) A(3), Z = 6, T = 150 K, R(1) = 0.0338 [I > 2sigma (I)], wR(2) = 0.0797). The average Ir-C bond length in the octahedral [Ir(CO)(6)](3+) cation is with 2.029(10) the longest observed for iridium carbonyl derivatives, consistent with the absence of Ir --> CO pi-back-bonding. The four solvate HF molecules form a tetrahedron via long, asymmetric, and partly delocalized hydrogen bonds with F-F edge lengths of 2.857 (3x) and 2.914 (3x) A. There is no precedent for a polyhedral (HF)(n) cluster in the gas, liquid, or solid phase. The four F atoms of the (HF)(4) cluster are coordinated to the C atoms of the six CO ligands of the cation, which again is without precedent. The coordination of one of the F atoms to three C atoms in a iso-tridentate mode with contact distances C-F(8) of 2.641(10) A is most unusual. The observed tight C-F coordination in [Ir(CO)(6)][SbF(6)](3).4HF provides conclusive evidence for the presence of electrophilic carbon in the cation and illustrates how superelectrophilic cations such as [Ir(CO)(6)](3+) are solvent stabilized in the conjugate Br?nsted-Lewis superacid HF-SbF(5).     

The synthesis and the molecular structure of hexakis(carbonyl)hexafluoroantimonato(V)tungsten(II) undecafluorodiantimonate(V), [W(CO)6(FSbF5)][Sb2F11

The reaction of tungsten hexacarbonyl, W(CO)6, with antimony(V) fluoride, SbF5, in the conjugate Br?nsted-Lewis superacid HF-SbF5 at 40 degrees C produces quantitatively the salt [W(CO)6(FSbF5)][Sb2F11] as the main product. The observed 2e- oxidation without any loss of CO is unprecedented. The cation [W(CO)6(FSbF5)]+ is seven coordinated with a distorted C2v capped trigonal prismatic structure. [W(CO)6(FSbF5)][Sb2F11] crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P21 (No. 4). a = 8.2051(12) A, b = 16.511(3) A, c = 8.1432(2) A, beta = 111.5967(6) degrees, V = 1025.8(2) A3, Z = 2. Number of reflections measured = 9112, unique 4410. Residuals on F, I > 3 sigma (I): R (Rw) = 0.023 (0.023). In the [W(CO)6(FSbF5)]+ cation the FSbF5 group is very tightly coordinated to tungsten with the bridging fluorine nearly equidistant from W and Sb. The details of the molecular structure are compared to those to polymeric [[Mo(CO)4]2(cis-mu-F2SbF4)3]x[Sb2F11]x reported by us very recently.     

Synthesis, Structure, and Reactivities of [eta(2)-P(7)M(CO)(4)](3)(-), [eta(2)-HP(7)M(CO)(4)](2)(-), and [eta(2)-RP(7)M(CO)(4)](2)(-) Zintl Ion Complexes Where M = Mo, W

Ethylenediamine (en) solutions of [eta(4)-P(7)M(CO)(3)](3)(-) ions [M = W (1a), Mo (1b)] react under one atmosphere of CO to form microcrystalline yellow powders of [eta(2)-P(7)M(CO)(4)](3)(-) complexes [M = W (4a), Mo (4b)]. Compounds 4 are unstable, losing CO to re-form 1, but are highly nucleophilic and basic. They are protonated with methanol in en solvent giving [eta(2)-HP(7)M(CO)(4)](2)(-) ions (5) and are alkylated with R(4)N(+) salts in en solutions to give [eta(2)-RP(7)M(CO)(4)](2)(-) complexes (6) in good yields (R = alkyl). Compounds 5 and 6 can also be prepared by carbonylations of the [eta(4)-HP(7)M(CO)(3)](2)(-) (3) and [eta(4)-RP(7)M(CO)(3)](2)(-) (2) precursors, respectively. The carbonylations of 1-3 to form 4-6 require a change from eta(4)- to eta(2)-coordination of the P(7) cages in order to maintain 18-electron configurations at the metal centers. Comparative protonation/deprotonation studies show 4 to be more basic than 1. The compounds were characterized by IR and (1)H, (13)C, and (31)P NMR spectroscopic studies and microanalysis where appropriate. The [K(2,2,2-crypt)](+) salts of 5 were characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction. For 5, the M-P bonds are very long (2.71(1) ?, average). The P(7)(3)(-) cages of 5 are not displaced by dppe. The P(7) cages in 4-6 have nortricyclane-like structures in contrast to the norbornadiene-type geometries observed for 1-3. (31)P NMR spectroscopic studies for 5-6 show C(1) symmetry in solution (seven inequivalent phosphorus nuclei), consistent with the structural studies for 5, and C(s)() symmetry for 4 (five phosphorus nuclei in a 2:2:1:1:1 ratio). Crystallographic data for [K(2,2,2-crypt)](2)[eta(2)-HP(7)W(CO)(4)].en: monoclinic, space group C2/c, a = 23.067(20) ?, b = 12.6931(13) ?, c = 21.433(2) ?, beta = 90.758(7) degrees, V = 6274.9(10) ?(3), Z = 4, R(F) = 0.0573, R(w)(F(2)) = 0.1409. For [K(2,2,2-crypt)](2)[eta(2)-HP(7)Mo(CO)(4)].en: monoclinic, space group C2/c, a = 22.848(2) ?, b = 12.528(2) ?, c = 21.460(2) ?, beta = 91.412(12) degrees, V = 6140.9(12) ?(3), Z = 4, R(F) = 0.0681, R(w)(F(2)) = 0.1399.     

Chemistry of Thiobenzoates: Syntheses, Structures, and NMR Spectra of Salts of [M(SOCPh)(3)](-) (M = Zn, Cd, Hg)

The salts (Ph(4)E)[M(SOCPh)(3)] (M = Zn, Cd, or Hg; E = P or As) are produced by the reaction of Zn(NO(3))(2).6 H(2)O, Cd(NO(3))(2).4H(2)O or HgCl(2) with Et(3)NH(+)PhCOS(-) and (Ph(4)E)X (E = P, X = Br; E = As, X = Cl) in aqueous MeOH in the ratios M(II):PhCOS(-):Ph(4)E(+) = 1:>/=3:>/=1. The crystal structures of (Ph(4)P)[Zn(SOCPh)(3)] (1), (Ph(4)As)[Cd(SOCPh)(3)] (2) and (Ph(4)P)[Hg(SOCPh)(3)] (3) have been determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction experiments. Crystal data for 1: triclinic; space group P&onemacr;; Z = 2; a = 10.819(2) ?, b = 13.219(3) ?, c = 15.951(3) ?; alpha = 101.75(2) degrees, beta = 97.92(1) degrees, gamma = 109.18(2) degrees. Crystal data for 2: triclinic; space group P&onemacr;; Z= 2; a = 10.741(2) ?, b = 13.168(2) ?, c = 15.809(2) ?; alpha = 101.00(1) degrees, beta = 97.65(1) degrees, gamma = 109.88(1) degrees. Crystal data for 3: monoclinic; space group P2(1)/n; Z = 4; a = 13.302(2) ?, b = 14.276(2) ?, c = 21.108(2) ?; beta = 90.92(1) degrees. The compounds 1 and 2 are isomorphous and isostructural. In the anions [M(SOCPh)(3)](-) the metal atoms have trigonal planar coordination by three sulfur atoms. The metal atoms are further more weakly coordinated intramolecularly to one (M = Hg) or two (M = Zn, Cd) thiobenzoate oxygen atom(s). Using the Bond Valence approach it is found that the contribution of M.O bonding to the total bonding is in the order Cd > Zn > Hg. The metal ((113)Cd, (199)Hg) NMR signals of [M(SOCPh)(3)](-) (M = Cd, Hg) are more shielded than those found for MS(3) kernels in thiolate complexes, a difference attributed to the M(.)O bonding in the thiobenzoate complexes. The (113)Cd resonance of [Cd(SOCPh)(3)](-) in dilute solution is in the region anticipated from dilution data for [Na(Cd{SOCPh}(3))(2)](-).     

Synthesis and Chemical and Electrochemical Characterization of Fe-S Carbonyl Clusters. X-ray Crystal Structures of [N(PPh(3))(2)](2)[Fe(5)S(2)(CO)(14)] and [N(PPh(3))(2)](2)[Fe(6)S(6)(CO)(12)

A reinvestigation of the redox behavior of the [Fe(3)(&mgr;(3)-S)(CO)(9)](2)(-) dianion led to the isolation and characterization of the new [Fe(5)S(2)(CO)(14)](2)(-), as well as the known [Fe(6)S(6)(CO)(12)](2)(-) dianion. As a corollary, new syntheses of the [Fe(3)S(CO)(9)](2)(-) dianion are also reported. The [Fe(5)S(2)(CO)(14)](2)(-) dianion has been obtained by oxidative condensation of [Fe(3)S(CO)(9)](2)(-) induced by tropylium and Ag(I) salts or SCl(2), or more straightforwardly through the reaction of [Fe(4)(CO)(13)](2)(-) with SCl(2). The [Fe(6)S(6)(CO)(12)](2)(-) dianion has been isolated as a byproduct of the synthesis of [Fe(3)S(CO)(9)](2)(-) and [Fe(5)S(2)(CO)(14)](2)(-) or by reaction of [Fe(4)(CO)(13)](2)(-) with elemental sulfur. The structures of [N(PPh(3))(2)](2)[Fe(5)S(2)(CO)(14)] and [N(PPh(3))(2)](2)[Fe(6)S(6)(CO)(12)] were determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analyses. Crystal data: for [N(PPh(3))(2)](2)[Fe(5)S(2)(CO)(14)], monoclinic, space group P2(1)/c (No. 14), a = 24.060(5), b = 14.355(6), c = 23.898(13) ?, beta = 90.42(3) degrees, Z = 4; for [N(PPh(3))(2)](2)[Fe(6)S(6)(CO)(12)], monoclinic, space group C2/c (No. 15), a = 34.424(4), b = 14.081(2), c = 19.674(2) ?, beta = 115.72(1) degrees, Z = 4. The new [Fe(5)S(2)(CO)(14)](2)(-) dianion shows a "bow tie" arrangement of the five metal atoms. The two Fe(3) triangles sharing the central Fe atom are not coplanar and show a dihedral angle of 55.08(3) degrees. Each Fe(3) moiety is capped by a triply bridging sulfide ligand. The 14 carbonyl groups are all terminal; two are bonded to the unique central atom and three to each peripheral iron atom. Protonation of the [Fe(5)S(2)(CO)(14)](2)(-) dianion gives reversibly rise to the corresponding [HFe(5)S(2)(CO)(14)](-) monohydride derivative, which shows an (1)H-NMR signal at delta -21.7 ppm. Its further protonation results in decomposition to mixtures of Fe(2)S(2)(CO)(6) and Fe(3)S(2)(CO)(9), rather than formation of the expected H(2)Fe(5)S(2)(CO)(14) dihydride. Exhaustive reduction of [Fe(5)S(2)(CO)(14)](2)(-) with sodium diphenyl ketyl progressively leads to fragmentation into [Fe(3)S(CO)(9)](2)(-) and [Fe(CO)(4)](2)(-), whereas electrochemical, as well as chemical oxidation with silver or tropylium tetrafluoroborate, in dichloromethane, generates the corresponding [Fe(5)S(2)(CO)(14)](-) radical anion which exhibits an ESR signal at g = 2.067 at 200 K. The electrochemical studies also indicated the existence of a subsequent one-electron anodic oxidation which possesses features of chemical reversibility in dichloromethane but not in acetonitrile solution. A reexamination of the electrochemical behavior of the [Fe(3)S(CO)(9)](2)(-) dianion coupled with ESR monitoring enabled the spectroscopic characterization of the [Fe(3)S(CO)(9)](-) radical monoanion and demonstrated its direct involvement in the generation of the [Fe(5)S(2)(CO)(14)](n)()(-) (n = 0, 1, 2) system.     

A solid-state NMR investigation of single-source precursors for group 12 metal selenides; M[N(iPr2PSe)2]2 (M = Zn, Cd, Hg)

The first solid-state NMR investigation of dichalcogenoimidodiphosphinato complexes, M[N(R(2)PE)(2)](n), is presented. The single-source precursors for metal-selenide materials, M[N((i)Pr(2)PSe)(2)](2) (M = Zn, Cd, Hg), were studied by solid-state (31)P, (77)Se, (113)Cd, and (199)Hg NMR at 4.7, 7.0, and 11.7 T, representing the only (77)Se NMR measurements, and in the case of Cd[N((i)Pr(2)PSe)(2)](2)(113)Cd NMR measurements, to have been performed on these complexes. Residual dipolar coupling between (14)N and (31)P was observed in solid-state (31)P NMR spectra at 4.7 and 7.0 T yielding average values of R((31)P,(14)N)(eff) = 880 Hz, C(Q)((14)N) = 3.0 MHz, (1)J((31)P,(14)N)(iso) = 15 Hz, alpha = 90 degrees , beta = 26 degrees . The solid-state NMR spectra obtained were used to determine the respective phosphorus, selenium, cadmium, and mercury chemical shift tensors along with the indirect spin-spin coupling constants: (1)J((77)Se,(31)P)(iso), (1)J((111/113)Cd,(77)Se)(iso), (1)J((199)Hg,(77)Se)(iso), and (2)J((199)Hg,(31)P)(iso). Density functional theory magnetic shielding tensor calculations were performed yielding the orientations of the corresponding chemical shift tensors. For this series of complexes the phosphorus magnetic shielding tensors are essentially identical, the selenium magnetic shielding tensors are also very similar with respect to each other, and the magnetic shielding tensors of the central metals, cadmium and mercury, display near axial symmetry demonstrating an expected deviation from local S(4) symmetry.     

X-ray crystal structures of alpha-KrF(2),[KrF][MF(6)](M=As,Sb,Bi),[Kr(2)F(3)][SbF(6).KrF(2), [Ke(2)F(3)2[SbF(6)]2.KrF(2), and [Kr(2)F(3)][AsF(6)].[KrF][AsF(6)]; synthesis and characterization of [Kr(2)F(3)][PF(6).nKrF(2); and theoretical studies of KrF(2), KrF+, Kr(2)F(3)+, and the [KrF][MF(6)](M=P,As,Sb,Bi) ion pairs

The crystal structures of alpha-KrF(2) and salts containing the KrF(+) and Kr(2)F(3)(+) cations have been investigated for the first time using low-temperature single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The low-temperature alpha-phase of KrF(2) crystallizes in the tetragonal space group I4/mmm with a = 4.1790(6) A, c = 6.489(1) A, Z = 2, V = 113.32(3) A(3), R(1) = 0.0231, and wR(2) = 0.0534 at -125 degrees C. The [KrF][MF(6)] (M = As, Sb, Bi) salts are isomorphous and isostructural and crystallize in the monoclinic space group P2(1)/c with Z = 4. The unit cell parameters are as follows: beta-[KrF][AsF(6)], a = 5.1753(2) A, b = 10.2019(7) A, c = 10.5763(8) A, beta = 95.298(2) degrees, V = 556.02(6) A(3), R(1) = 0.0265, and wR(2) = 0.0652 at -120 degrees C; [KrF][SbF(6)], a = 5.2922(6) A, b = 10.444(1) A, c = 10.796(1) A, beta = 94.693(4) degrees, V = 594.73(1) A(3), R(1) = 0.0266, wR(2) = 0.0526 at -113 degrees C; [KrF][BiF(6)], a = 5.336(1) A, b = 10.513(2) A, c = 11.046(2) A, beta = 94.79(3) degrees, V = 617.6(2) A(3), R(1) = 0.0344, and wR(2) = 0.0912 at -130 degrees C. The Kr(2)F(3)(+) cation was investigated in [Kr(2)F(3)][SbF(6)].KrF(2), [Kr(2)F(3)](2)[SbF(6)](2).KrF(2), and [Kr(2)F(3)][AsF(6)].[KrF][AsF(6)]. [Kr(2)F(3)](2)[SbF(6)](2).KrF(2) crystallizes in the monoclinic P2(1)/c space group with Z = 4 and a = 8.042(2) A, b = 30.815(6) A, c = 8.137(2) A, beta = 111.945(2) degrees, V = 1870.1(7) A(3), R(1) = 0.0376, and wR(2) = 0.0742 at -125 degrees C. [Kr(2)F(3)][SbF(6)].KrF(2) crystallizes in the triclinic P1 space group with Z = 2 and a = 8.032(3) A, b = 8.559(4) A, c = 8.948(4) A, alpha = 69.659(9) degrees, beta = 63.75(1) degrees, gamma = 82.60(1) degrees, V = 517.1(4) A(3), R(1) = 0.0402, and wR(2) = 0.1039 at -113 degrees C. [Kr(2)F(3)][AsF(6)].[KrF][AsF(6)] crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P2(1)/c with Z = 4 and a = 6.247(1) A, b = 24.705(4) A, c = 8.8616(6) A, beta = 90.304(6) degrees, V = 1367.6(3) A(3), R(1) = 0.0471 and wR(2) = 0.0958 at -120 degrees C. The terminal Kr-F bond lengths of KrF(+) and Kr(2)F(3)(+) are very similar, exhibiting no crystallographically significant variation in the structures investigated (range, 1.765(3)-1.774(6) A and 1.780(7)-1.805(5) A, respectively). The Kr-F bridge bond lengths are significantly longer, with values ranging from 2.089(6) to 2.140(3) A in the KrF(+) salts and from 2.027(5) to 2.065(4) A in the Kr(2)F(3)(+) salts. The Kr-F bond lengths of KrF(2) in [Kr(2)F(3)][SbF(6)].KrF(2) and [Kr(2)F(3)](2)[SbF(6)](2).KrF(2) range from 1.868(4) to 1.888(4) A and are similar to those observed in alpha-KrF(2) (1.894(5) A). The synthesis and Raman spectrum of the new salt, [Kr(2)F(3)][PF(6)].nKrF(2), are also reported. Electron structure calculations at the Hartree-Fock and local density-functional theory levels were used to calculate the gas-phase geometries, charges, Mayer bond orders, and Mayer valencies of KrF(+), KrF(2), Kr(2)F(3)(+), and the ion pairs, [KrF][MF(6)] (M = P, As, Sb, Bi), and to assign their experimental vibrational frequencies.     

Solid-state NMR spectroscopic study of coordination compounds of XeF(2) with metal cations and the crystal structure of [Ba(XeF(2))(5)][AsF(6)](2)

The coordination compounds [Mg(XeF(2))(2)][AsF(6)](2), [Mg(XeF(2))(4)][AsF(6)](2), [Ca(XeF(2))(2.5)][AsF(6)](2), [Ba(XeF(2))(3)][AsF(6)](2), and [Ba(XeF(2))(5)][AsF(60](2) were characterized by solid-state (19)F and (129)Xe magic-angle spinning NMR spectroscopy. The (19)F and (129)Xe NMR data of [Mg(XeF(2))(2)][AsF(6)](2), [Mg(XeF(2)(4)][AsF(6)](2), and [Ca(XeF(2))(2.5)][AsF(6)](2) were correlated with the previously determined crystal structures. The isotropic (19)F chemical shifts and (1)J((129)Xe-(19)F) coupling constants were used to distinguish the terminal and bridging coordination modes of XeF(2). Chemical-shift and coupling-constant calculations for [Mg(XeF(2))(4)][AsF(6)](2) confirmed the assignment of terminal and bridging chemical-shift and coupling-constant ranges. The NMR spectroscopic data of [Ba(XeF(2))(3)][AsF(6)](2) and [Ba(XeF(2))(5)][AsF(6)](2) indicate the absence of any terminal XeF(2) ligands, which was verified for [Ba(XeF(2))(5)][AsF(6)](2) by its X-ray crystal structure. The adduct [Ba(XeF(2))(5)][AsF(6)](2) crystallizes in the space group Fmmm, with a = 11.6604(14) Angstrom, b = 13.658(2) Angstrom, c = 13.7802(17) Angstrom, V = 2194.5(5) Angstrom(3) at -73 degrees C, Z = 4, and R = 0.0350 and contains two crystallographically independent bridging XeF(2) molecules and one nonligating XeF(2) molecule. The AsF(6-) anions in [Mg(XeF(2))(4)][AsF(6)](2), [Ca(XeF(2))(2.5)][AsF(6)](2), [Ba(XeF(2))(3)][AsF(6)](2), and [Ba(XeF(2))(5)][AsF(6)](2) were shown to be fluxional with the fluorines-on-arsenic being equivalent on the NMR time scale, emulating perfectly octahedral anion symmetry.     

One- and two-step spin-crossover behavior of [Fe(II)(isoxazole)(6)](2+) and the structure and magnetic properties of triangular [Fe(III)(3)O(OAc)(6)(isoxazole)(3)][ClO(4)

The structure and spin-crossover magnetic behavior of [Fe(II)1(6)][BF(4)](2) (1 = isoxazole) and [Fe(II)1(6)][ClO(4)](2) have been studied. [Fe(II)1(6)][BF(4)](2) undergoes two reversible spin-crossover transitions at 91 and 192 K, and is the first two-step spin transition to undergo a simultaneous crystallographic phase transition, but does not exhibit thermal hysteresis. The single-crystal structure determinations at 260 [space group P3, a = 17.4387(4) A, c = 7.6847(2) A] and at 130 K [space group P1, a = 17.0901(2) A, b = 16.7481(2) A, c = 7.5413(1) A, alpha = 90.5309(6) degrees, beta = 91.5231(6) degrees, gamma = 117.8195(8) degrees ] reveal two different iron sites, Fe1 and Fe2, in a 1:2 ratio. The room-temperature magnetic moment of 5.0 mu(B) is consistent with high-spin Fe(II). A plateau in mu(T) having a moment of 3.3 mu(B) centered at 130 K suggests a mixed spin system of some high-spin and some low-spin Fe(II) molecules. On the basis of the Fe-N bond distances at the two temperatures, and the molar fraction of high-spin molecules at the transition plateau, Fe1 and Fe2 can be assigned to the 91 and 192 K transitions, respectively. [Fe(II)1(6)][ClO(4)](2) [space group P3, a = 17.5829(3) A, c = 7.8043(2) A, beta = 109.820 (3) degrees, T = 295 K] also possesses Fe1:Fe2 in a 1:2 ratio, and magnetic measurements show a single spin transition at 213 K, indicating that both Fe1 and Fe2 undergo a simultaneous spin transition. [Fe(II)1(6)][ClO(4)](2) slowly decomposes in solutions containing acetic anhydride to form [Fe(III)(3)O(OAc)(6)1(3)][ClO(4)] [space group I2, a = 10.1547(7) A, b = 16.5497(11) A, c = 10.3205(9) A, beta = 109.820 (3) degrees, T = 200 K]. The isosceles Fe(3) unit contains two Fe.Fe distances of 3.2844(1) A and a third Fe.Fe distance of 3.2857(1) A. The magnetic data can be fit to a trinuclear model with H = -2J(S(1)xS(2) + S(2)xS(3)) - 2J(13)(S(1)xS(3)), where J = -27.1 and J(13) = -32.5 cm(-1).     

Lanthanide-transition-metal carbonyl complexes: new [Co4(CO)11]2- clusters and lanthanide(II) isocarbonyl polymeric arrays

Two types of Ln(II)-Co(4) isocarbonyl polymeric arrays, [(Et(2)O)(3)(-)(x)()(THF)(x)()Ln[Co(4)(CO)(11)]]( infinity ) (1-3; x = 0, 1) and [(THF)(5)Eu[Co(4)(CO)(11)]]( infinity ) (4), were prepared and structurally characterized. Transmetalation involving Ln(0) and Hg[Co(CO)(4)](2) in Et(2)O yields [(Et(2)O)(3)Ln[Co(4)(CO)(11)]]( infinity ) (1, Ln = Yb; 2, Ln = Eu). Dissolution of the solvent-separated ion pairs [Ln(THF)(x)()][Co(CO)(4)](2) (Ln = Yb, x = 6; Ln = Eu) in Et(2)O affords [(Et(2)O)(2)(THF)Yb[Co(4)(CO)(11)]]( infinity ) (3) and [(THF)(5)Eu[Co(4)(CO)(11)]]( infinity ) (4). In these reactions, oxidation and condensation of the [Co(CO)(4)](-) anions result in formation of the new tetrahedral cluster [Co(4)(CO)(11)](2)(-). The two types of Ln(II)-Co(4) compounds contain different isomers of [Co(4)(CO)(11)](2)(-), and, consequently, the structures of the infinite isocarbonyl networks are distinct. The cluster in [(Et(2)O)(3)(-)(x)()(THF)(x)()Ln[Co(4)(CO)(11)]]( infinity ) (1-3) possesses pseudo C(3)(v)() symmetry (an apical Co, three basal Co atoms; one face-bridging, three edge-bridging, seven terminal carbonyls) and connects to Ln(II) centers through eta(2),micro(4)- and eta(2),micro(3)-carbonyls to generate a 2-D puckered sheet. In contrast, [(THF)(5)Eu[Co(4)(CO)(11)]]( infinity ) (4) incorporates a C(2)(v)() symmetric cluster (two unique Co environments; two face-bridging, one edge-bridging, eight terminal carbonyls), and isocarbonyl linkages (eta(2),micro(4)-carbonyls) to Eu(II) atoms create a 1-D zigzag chain. Complexes 1-4 contain the first reported eta(2),micro(4)-CO bridges between a Ln and a transition-metal carbonyl cluster. Infrared spectroscopic studies revealed that the isocarbonyl associations to Ln(II) persist in solution. The solution structure and dynamic behavior of the [Co(4)(CO)(11)](2)(-) cluster in 1 was investigated by variable-temperature (59)Co and (13)C NMR spectroscopies.     

X-ray crystal structures of [XF(6)][Sb(2)F(11)] (X = Cl, Br, I); (35,37)Cl, (79,81)Br, and (127)I NMR studies and electronic structure calculations of the XF(6)(+) cations

The single-crystal X-ray structures of [XF(6)][Sb(2)F(11)] (X = Cl, Br, I) have been determined and represent the first detailed crystallographic study of salts containing the XF(6)(+) cations. The three salts are isomorphous and crystallize in the monoclinic space group P2(1)/n with Z = 4: [ClF(6)][Sb(2)F(11)], a = 11.824(2) A, b = 8.434(2) A, c = 12.088(2) A, beta = 97.783(6) degrees , V = 1194.3(4) A(3), R(1) = 0.0488 at -130 degrees C; [BrF(6)][Sb(2)F(11)], a = 11.931(2) A, b = 8.492(2) A, c = 12.103(2) A, beta = 97.558(4) degrees , V = 1215.5(4) A(3), R(1) = 0.0707 at -130 degrees C; [IF(6)][Sb(2)F(11)], a = 11.844(1) A, b = 8.617(1) A, c = 11.979(2) A, beta = 98.915(2) degrees , V = 1207.8(3) A(3), R(1) = 0.0219 at -173 degrees C. The crystal structure of [IF(6)][Sb(2)F(11)] was also determined at -100 degrees C and was found to crystallize in the monoclinic space group P2(1)/m with Z = 4, a = 11.885(1) A, b = 8.626(1) A, c = 12.000(1) A, beta = 98.44(1), V = 1216.9(2) A(3), R(1) = 0.0635. The XF(6)(+) cations have octahedral geometries with average Cl-F, Br-F, and I-F bond lengths of 1.550(4), 1.666(11) and 1.779(6) [-173 degrees C]/1.774(8) [-100 degrees C] A, respectively. The chemical shifts of the central quadrupolar nuclei, (35,37)Cl, (79,81)Br, and (127)I, were determined for [ClF(6)][AsF(6)] (814 ppm), [BrF(6)][AsF(6)] (2080 ppm), and [IF(6)][Sb(3)F(16)] (3381 ppm) in anhydrous HF solution at 27 degrees C, and spin-inversion-recovery experiments were used to determine the T(1)-relaxation times of (35)Cl (1.32(3) s), (37)Cl (2.58(6) s), (79)Br (24.6(4) ms), (81)Br (35.4(5) ms), and (127)I (6.53(1) ms). Trends among the central halogen chemical shifts and T(1)-relaxation times of XF(6)(+), XO(4)(-), and X(-) are discussed. The isotropic (1)J-coupling constants and reduced coupling constants for the XF(6)(+) cations and isoelectronic hexafluoro species of rows 3-6 are empirically assessed in terms of the relative contributions of the Fermi-contact, spin-dipolar, and spin-orbit mechanisms. Electronic structure calculations using Hartree-Fock, MP2, and local density functional methods were used to determine the energy-minimized gas-phase geometries, atomic charges, and Mayer bond orders of the XF(6)(+) cations. The calculated vibrational frequencies are in accord with the previously published assignments and experimental vibrational frequencies of the XF(6)(+) cations. Bonding trends within the XF(6)(+) cation series have been discussed in terms of natural bond orbital (NBO) analyses, the ligand close-packed (LCP) model, and the electron localization function (ELF).     

Structures of Sb(OC(6)H(3)Me(2)-2,6)(3) and Sb(OEt)(5) x NH(3): the first authenticated monomeric Sb(OR)(n) (n = 3, 5)

The first monomeric antimony alkoxides, Sb(OC(6)H(3)Me(2))(3) (1) and Sb(OEt)(5) x NH(3) (2), have been crystallographically characterized. The former adopts a trigonal pyramidal geometry, while the latter is octahedral about antimony; hydrogen bonding between NH(3) and SbOEt groups in Sb(OEt)(5) small middle dotNH(3) creates a one-dimensional lattice arrangement. Reaction of pyridine with SbCl(5) in EtOH/hexane yields the salt [Hpy(+)](9)[Sb(2)Cl(11)(5)(-)][Cl(-)](4) (3), which has also been crystallographically characterized. Crystallographic data: 1, C(24)H(27)O(3)Sb, a = 10.9080(2), b = 11.9660(2), c = 17.7260(4) A, alpha = 109.740(1) degrees, monoclinic P2(1)/c (unique axis a), Z = 4; 2, C(10)H(28)NO(5)Sb, a = 7.7220(1), b = 19.0700(2), c = 21.6800(3) A, beta = 93.4960(7) degrees, monoclinic P2(1)/c, Z = 8; 3, C(45)H(54)Cl(15)N(9)Sb(2), a = 13.4300(2), b = 14.4180(2), c = 17.4180(3) A, alpha = 82.7650(7), beta = 77.5570(7), gamma = 70.7670(7) degrees, triclinic P1, Z = 2.     

Preparation and Structures of the 2.2.2-Cryptand(1+) Salts of the [Sb(2)Se(4)](2)(-), [As(2)S(4)](2)(-), [As(10)S(3)](2)(-), and [As(4)Se(6)](2)(-) Anions

2.2.2-Cryptand(1+) salts of the [Sb(2)Se(4)](2)(-), [As(2)S(4)](2)(-), [As(10)S(3)](2)(-), and [As(4)Se(6)](2)(-) anions have been synthesized from the reduction of binary chalcogenide compounds by K in NH(3)(l) in the presence of the alkali-metal-encapsulating ligand 2.2.2-cryptand (4,7,13,16,21,24-hexaoxa-1,10-diazabicyclo[8.8.8]hexacosane), followed by recrystallization from CH(3)CN. The [Sb(2)Se(4)](2)(-) anion, which has crystallographically imposed symmetry 2, consists of two discrete edge-sharing SbSe(3) pyramids with terminal Se atoms cis to each other. The Sb-Se(t) bond distance is 2.443(1) ?, whereas the Sb-Se(b) distance is 2.615(1) ? (t = terminal; b = bridge). The Se(b)-Sb-Se(t) angles range from 104.78(4) to 105.18(5) degrees, whereas the Se(b)-Sb-Se(b) angles are 88.09(4) and 88.99(4) degrees. The (77)Se NMR data for this anion in solution are consistent with its X-ray structure (delta 337 and 124 ppm, 1:1 intensity, -30 degrees C, CH(3)CN/CD(3)CN). Similar to this [Sb(2)Se(4)](2)(-) anion, the [As(2)S(4)](2)(-) anion consists of two discrete edge-sharing AsS(3) pyramidal units. The As-S(t) bond distances are 2.136(7) and 2.120(7) ?, whereas the As-S(b) distances range from 2.306(7) to 2.325(7) ?. The S(b)-As-S(t) angles range from 106.2(3) to 108.2(3) degrees, and the S(b)-As-S(b) angles are 88.3(2) and 88.9(2) degrees. The [As(10)S(3)](2)(-) anion has an 11-atom As(10)S center composed of six five-membered edge-sharing rings. One of the three waist positions is occupied by a S atom, and the other two waist positions feature As atoms with exocyclic S atoms attached, making each As atom in the structure three-coordinate. The As-As bond distances range from 2.388(3) to 2.474(3) ?. The As-S(t) bond distances are 2.181(5) and 2.175(4) ?, and the As-S(b) bond distance is 2.284(6) ?. The [As(4)Se(6)](2)(-) anion features two AsSe(3) units joined by Se-Se bonds with the two exocyclic Se atoms trans to each other. The average As-Se(t) bond distance is 2.273(2) ?, whereas the As-Se(b) bond distances range from 2.357(3) to 2.462(2) ?. The Se(b)-As-Se(t) angles range from 101.52(8) to 105.95(9) degrees, and the Se(b)-As-Se(b) angles range from 91.82(7) to 102.97(9) degrees. The (77)Se NMR data for this anion in solution are consistent with its X-ray structure (delta 564 and 317 ppm, 3:1 intensity, 25 degrees C, DMF/CD(3)CN).     

The solid state structure of [b(10)h(11)](-) and its dynamic NMR spectra in solution

The structure of [PPh(3)(benzyl)][B(10)H(11)] was determined at -123 degrees C and 24 degrees C by single-crystal X-ray analyses. The B(10) core of [B(10)H(11)](-) is similar in shape to that of [B(10)H(10)](2)(-). The 11th H atom asymmetrically caps a polar face of the cluster and shows no tendency for disorder in the solid state. Variable temperature multinuclear NMR studies shed light on the dynamic nature of [B(10)H(11)](-) in solution. In addition to the fluxionality of the cluster H atoms, the boron cage is fluxional at moderate temperatures, in contrast to [B(10)H(10)](2)(-). Multiple exchange processes are believed to take place as a function of temperature. Results of ab initio calculations are presented. Crystal data: [PPh(3)(benzyl)][B(10)H(11)] at -123 degrees C, P2(1)/c, a = 9.988(2) A, b = 18.860(2) A, c = 15.072(2) A, beta = 107.916(8) degrees, V = 2701.5(7) A(3), Z = 4; [PPh(3)(benzyl)][B(10)H(11)] at 24 degrees C, P2(1)/c, a = 10.067(5) A, b = 19.009(9) A, c = 15.247(7) A, beta = 107.952(9) degrees, V = 2775(2) A(3), Z = 4.