Preparation of tungsten alkyl alkylidene alkylidyne complexes and kinetic studies of their formation

An equilibrium mixture of alkyl alkylidyne W(CH2SiMe3)3(CSiMe3)(PMe3) (1a) and its bis(alkylidene) tautomer W(CH2SiMe3)2(=CHSiMe3)2(PMe3) (1b) has been found to undergo an alpha-hydrogen abstraction reaction in the presence of PMe3 to form alkyl alkylidene alkylidyne W(CH2SiMe3)(=CHSiMe3)(CSiMe3)(PMe3)2 (2). In the presence of PMe3, the formation of 2 follows first-order kinetics, and the observed rate constant was found to be independent of the concentration of PMe3. The activation parameters for the formation of 2 are Delta H = 28.3(1.7) kcal/mol and Delta S = 3(5) eu. In the presence of PMe2Ph, an equilibrium mixture of W(CH2SiMe3)3(CSiMe3)(PMe2Ph) (3a) and its bis(alkylidene) tautomer W(CH2SiMe3)2(=CHSiMe3)2(PMe2Ph) (3b) was similarly converted to W(CH2SiMe3)(=CHSiMe3)(CSiMe3)(PMe2Ph)2 (4). The observed rate of this reaction was also independent of the concentration of PMe2Ph. These observations suggest a pathway in which the tautomeric mixtures 1a,b and 3a,b undergo rate-determining, alpha-hydrogen abstraction, followed by phosphine coordination, resulting in the formation of the alkyl alkylidene alkylidyne complexes 2 and 4.     

The first example of a nitrile hydratase model complex that reversibly binds nitriles

Nitrile hydratase (NHase) is an iron-containing metalloenzyme that converts nitriles to amides. The mechanism by which this biochemical reaction occurs is unknown. One mechanism that has been proposed involves nucleophilic attack of an Fe-bound nitrile by water (or hydroxide). Reported herein is a five-coordinate model compound ([Fe(III)(S(2)(Me2)N(3)(Et,Pr))](+)) containing Fe(III) in an environment resembling that of NHase, which reversibly binds a variety of nitriles, alcohols, amines, and thiocyanate. XAS shows that five-coordinate [Fe(III)(S(2)(Me2)N(3)(Et,Pr))](+) reacts with both methanol and acetonitrile to afford a six-coordinate solvent-bound complex. Competitive binding studies demonstrate that MeCN preferentially binds over ROH, suggesting that nitriles would be capable of displacing the H(2)O coordinated to the iron site of NHase. Thermodynamic parameters were determined for acetonitrile (DeltaH = -6.2(+/-0.2) kcal/mol, DeltaS = -29.4(+/-0.8) eu), benzonitrile (-4.2(+/-0.6) kcal/mol, DeltaS = -18(+/-3) eu), and pyridine (DeltaH = -8(+/-1) kcal/mol, DeltaS = -41(+/-6) eu) binding to [Fe(III)(S(2)(Me2)N(3)(Et,Pr))](+) using variable-temperature electronic absorption spectroscopy. Ligand exchange kinetics were examined for acetonitrile, iso-propylnitrile, benzonitrile, and 4-tert-butylpyridine using (13)C NMR line-broadening analysis, at a variety of temperatures. Activation parameters for ligand exchange were determined to be DeltaH(+ +) = 7.1(+/-0.8) kcal/mol, DeltaS(+ +) = -10(+/-1) eu (acetonitrile), DeltaH(+ +) = 5.4(+/-0.6) kcal/mol, DeltaS(+ +) = -17(+/-2) eu (iso-propionitrile), DeltaH(+ +) = 4.9(+/-0.8) kcal/mol, DeltaS(+ +) = -20(+/-3) eu (benzonitrile), and DeltaH(+ +) = 4.7(+/-1.4) kcal/mol DeltaS(+ +) = -18(+/-2) eu (4-tert-butylpyridine). The thermodynamic parameters for pyridine binding to a related complex, [Fe(III)(S(2)(Me2)N(3)(Pr,Pr))](+) (DeltaH = -5.9(+/-0.8) kcal/mol, DeltaS = -24(+/-3) eu), are also reported, as well as kinetic parameters for 4-tert-butylpyridine exchange (DeltaH(+ +) = 3.1(+/-0.8) kcal/mol, DeltaS(+ +) = -25(+/-3) eu). These data show for the first time that, when it is contained in a ligand environment similar to that of NHase, Fe(III) is capable of forming a stable complex with nitriles. Also, the rates of ligand exchange demonstrate that low-spin Fe(III) in this ligand environment is more labile than expected. Furthermore, comparison of [Fe(III)(S(2)(Me2)N(3)(Et,Pr))](+) and [Fe(III)(S(2)(Me2)N(3)(Pr,Pr))](+) demonstrates how minor distortions induced by ligand constraints can dramatically alter the reactivity of a metal complex.     

Dynamical intramolecular metal-to-metal ligand exchange of phosphine and thioether ligands in derivatives PtRu5(CO)16(mu6-C)

The complexes PtRu(5)(CO)(15)(PMe(2)Ph)(mu(6)-C) (2), PtRu(5)(CO)(14)(PMe(2)Ph)(2)(mu(6)-C) (3), PtRu(5)(CO)(15)(PMe(3))(mu(6)-C) (4), PtRu(5)(CO)(14)(PMe(3))(2)(mu(6)-C) (5), and PtRu(5)(CO)(15)(Me(2)S)(mu(6)-C) (6) were obtained from the reactions of PtRu(5)(CO)(16)(mu(6)-C) (1) with the appropriate ligand. As determined by NMR spectroscopy, all the new complexes exist in solution as a mixture of isomers. Compounds 2, 3, and 6 were characterized crystallographically. In all three compounds, the six metal atoms are arranged in an octahedral geometry, with a carbido carbon atom in the center. The PMe(2)Ph and Me(2)S ligands are coordinated to the Pt atom in 2 and 6, respectively. In 3, the two PMe(2)Ph ligands are coordinated to Ru atoms. In solution, all the new compounds undergo dynamical intramolecular isomerization by shifting the PMe(2)Ph or Me(2)S ligand back and forth between the Pt and Ru atoms. For compound 2, DeltaH++ = 15.1(3) kcal/mol, DeltaS++ = -7.7(9) cal/(mol.K), and DeltaG(298) = 17.4(6) kcal/mol for the transformation of the major isomer to the minor isomer; for compound 4, DeltaH++ = 14.0(1) kcal/mol, DeltaS++ = -10.7(4) cal/(mol.K), and DeltaG(298) = 17.2(2) kcal/mol for the transformation of the major isomer to the minor isomer; for compound 6, DeltaH++ = 18(1) kcal/mol, DeltaS++ = 21(5) cal/(mol.K) and DeltaG(298) = 12(2) kcal/mol. The shifts of the Me(2)S ligand in 6 are significantly more facile than the shifts for the phosphine ligand in compounds 2-5. This is attributed to a more stable ligand-bridged intermediate for the isomerizations of 6 than that for compounds 2-5. The intermediate for the isomerization of 6 involves a bridging Me(2)S ligand that can use two lone pairs of electrons for coordination to the metal atoms, whereas a tertiary phosphine ligand can use only one lone pair of electrons for bridging coordination.     

Mechanism of reversible alkyne coupling at zirconocene: ancillary ligand effects

The mechanism of reversible alkyne coupling at zirconium was investigated by examination of the kinetics of zirconacyclopentadiene cleavage to produce free alkynes. The zirconacyclopentadiene rings studied possess trimethylsilyl substituents in the alpha-positions, and the ancillary Cp2, Me2C(eta(5)-C5H4)2, and CpCp* (Cp* = eta(5)-C5Me5) bis(cyclopentadienyl) ligand sets were employed. Fragmentation of the zirconacyclopentadiene ring in Cp2Zr[2,5-(Me3Si)2-3,4-Ph2C4] with PMe3, to produce Cp2Zr(eta(2)-PhC[triple bond]CSiMe3)(PMe3) and free PhC[triple bond]CSiMe3, is first-order in initial zirconacycle concentration and zero-order in incoming phosphine (k(obs) = 1.4(2) x 10(-5) s(-1) at 22 degrees C), and the activation parameters determined by an Eyring analysis (DeltaH(double dagger) = 28(2) kcal mol(-1) and DeltaS(double dagger) = 14(4) eu) are consistent with a dissociative mechanism. The analogous reaction of the ansa-bridged complex Me2C(eta(5)-C5H4)2Zr[2,5-(Me3Si)2-3,4-Ph2C4] is 100 times faster than that for the corresponding Cp2 complex, while the corresponding CpCp* complex reacts 20 times slower than the Cp2 derivative. These rates appear to be largely influenced by the steric properties of the ancillary ligands.     

B(C6F5)3- vs Al(C6F5)3-derived metallocenium ion pairs. Structural, thermochemical, and structural dynamic divergences

The thermodynamic and structural characteristics of Al(C6F(5)3-derived vs B(C6F5)3-derived group 4 metallocenium ion pairs are quantified. Reaction of 1.0 equiv of B(C6F5)3 or 1.0 or 2.0 equiv of Al(C6F5)3 with rac-C2H4(eta5-Ind)2Zr(CH3)2 (rac-(EBI)Zr(CH3)2) yields rac-(EBI)Zr(CH3)(+)H3CB(C6)F5)(3)(-) (1a), rac-(EBI)Zr(CH3)+H3CAl(C6F5)(3)(-) (1b), and rac-(EBI)Zr2+[H3CAl(C6F5)3](-)(2) (1c), respectively. X-ray crystallographic analysis of 1b indicates the H3CAl(C6F5)(3)(-) anion coordinates to the metal center via a bridging methyl in a manner similar to B(C6F5)3-derived metallocenium ion pairs. However, the Zr-(CH3)(bridging) and Al-(CH3)(bridging) bond lengths of 1b (2.505(4) A and 2.026(4) A, respectively) indicate the methyl group is less completely abstracted in 1b than in typical B(C6F5)3-derived ion pairs. Ion pair formation enthalpies (DeltaH(ipf)) determined by isoperibol solution calorimetry in toluene from the neutral precursors are -21.9(6) kcal mol(-1) (1a), -14.0(15) kcal mol(-1) (1b), and -2.1(1) kcal mol(-1) (1b-->1c), indicating Al(C6F5)3 to have significantly less methide affinity than B(C6F5)3. Analogous experiments with Me2Si(eta5-Me4C5)(t-BuN)Ti(CH3)2 indicate a similar trend. Furthermore, kinetic parameters for ion pair epimerization by cocatalyst exchange (ce) and anion exchange (ae), determined by line-broadening in VT NMR spectra over the range 25-75 degrees C, are DeltaH++(ce) = 22(1) kcal mol(-1), DeltaS++(ce) = 8.2(4) eu, DeltaH++(ae) = 14(2) kcal mol(-1), and DeltaS++(ae) = -15(2) eu for 1a. Line broadening for 1b is not detectable until just below the temperature where decomposition becomes significant ( approximately 75-80 degrees C), but estimation of the activation parameters at 72 degrees C gives DeltaH++(ce) approximately 22 kcal mol(-1)and DeltaH++(ae) approximately 16 kcal mol(-1), consistent with the bridging methide being more strongly bound to the zirconocenium center than in 1a.     

The solution structures and dynamics and the solid-state structures of substituted cyclopentadienyltitanium(IV) trifluorides

Organotitanium fluorides (C5Me4R)TiF3 (R = H, Me, Et) sublimate with formation of crystalline dimers. From solution, we obtained crystals of dimers and tetramers. The tetramer [{(C5Me5)TiF3}4] irreversibly dissociates in the solid state to dimers (DeltaH = 8.33 kcal mol(-1)). The variable-temperature (1)H and (19)F NMR spectroscopy measurements of the toluene-d(8) solution of [{(C5Me5)TiF3}2] revealed at 202 K one monomeric, two dimeric (with C2h and Cs symmetry), two tetrameric (with D2 and C2v symmetry), and two trimeric (both C2 symmetry) molecules. With the increase in temperature and dilution of the solution, the composition of the solution shifts to the smaller molecules. The thermodynamic and activation parameters for the reversible dissociation of dimers to monomers in the solution are DeltaH = 9.2 kcal mol(-1), DeltaS = 24.2 cal mol(-1) K(-1), DeltaH(double dagger) = 12.2 kcal mol(-1), DeltaS(double dagger) = 9.7 cal mol(-1) K(-1). The dissociation path with a weakly double-bridged transition-state dimer was proposed. The thermodynamic parameters for the reversible dissociation of the C2v tetramer to the dimers in solution are DeltaH = 7.9 kcal mol(-1) and DeltaS = 26.8 cal mol(-1) K(-1). From both tetramers, the D2 molecule is 0.34(5) kcal mol(-1) lower in enthalpy and 6.5(5) cal mol(-1) K(-1) lower in entropy than the C2v molecule. The structures of both trimers were proposed. The low-temperature 19F NMR spectra of the CDCl3 solution of [{(C5Me5)TiF3}2] are consistent with equilibria of a monomer, two dimers (with C2h and Cs symmetry), and a trimer. The vapor pressure osmometric molecular mass determination of CDCl3 solution of [{(C5Me5)TiF3}2] at 302 K is consistent with the equilibrium of the dimer and the monomer.     

CASSCF and CASPT2 calculations on the cleavage and ring inversion of bicyclo[2.2.0]hexane find that these reactions involve formation of a common twist-boat diradical intermediate.

(6/6)CASSCF and CASPT2/6-31G calculations have been performed to understand the experimental finding of Goldstein and Benzon (J. Am. Chem. Soc. 1972, 94, 5119) that exo-bicyclo[2.2.0]hexane-d(4) (1b) undergoes ring inversion to form endo-bicyclo[2.2.0]hexane-d(4) (4b) faster than it undergoes cleavage to form cis,trans-1,5-hexadiene-d(4) (3b). Goldstein and Benzon also found that the latter reaction, which must occur via a chairlike transition structure (TS), is much faster than cleavage of 1b to trans,trans-1,5-hexadiene-d(4) (2b) via a boatlike TS. Our calculations reveal that all three of these reactions involve ring opening of 1, through a boat diradical TS (BDTS), to form a twist-boat diradical intermediate (TBDI). TBDI can reclose to 4 via a stereoisomeric boat diradical TS (BDTS'), or TBDI can cleave, either via a half-chair diradical TS (HCDTS) to form 3 or via a boat TS (BTS) to form 2. The calculated values of DeltaH(++) = 34.6 kcal/mol, DeltaS(++) = -1.6 eu, and DeltaH(++) = 35.2 kcal/mol, DeltaS(++) = 2.0 eu for ring inversion of 1 to 4 and cleavage of 1 to 3, respectively, are in excellent agreement with the values measured by Goldstein and Benzon. The higher value of DeltaH(++) = 37.6 kcal/mol, computed for cleavage of TBDI to 2, is consistent with the experimental finding that very little 2b is formed when 1b is pyrolyzed. The relationships between BDTS, HCDTS, and BTS and the chair and boat Cope rearrangement TSs (CCTS and BCTS) are discussed.     

Proton transfer to nickel-thiolate complexes. 1. Protonation of [Ni(SC(6)H(4)R-4)(2)(Ph(2)PCH(2)CH(2)PPh(2))] (R = Me, MeO, H, Cl, or NO(2))

The kinetics of the equilibrium reaction between [Ni(SC(6)H(4)R-4)(2)(dppe)] (R= MeO, Me, H, Cl, or NO(2); dppe = Ph(2)PCH(2)CH(2)PPh(2)) and mixtures of [lutH](+) and lut (lut = 2,6-dimethylpyridine) in MeCN to form [Ni(SHC(6)H(4)R-4)(SC(6)H(4)R-4)(dppe)](+) have been studied using stopped-flow spectrophotometry. The kinetics for the reactions with R = MeO, Me, H, or Cl are consistent with a single-step equilibrium reaction. Investigation of the temperature dependence of the reactions shows that DeltaG = 13.6 +/- 0.3 kcal mol(-)(1) for all the derivatives but the values of DeltaH and DeltaS vary with R (R = MeO, DeltaH() = 8.5 kcal mol(-)(1), DeltaS = -16 cal K(-)(1) mol(-)(1); R = Me, DeltaH() = 10.8 kcal mol(-)(1), DeltaS = -9.5 cal K(-)(1) mol(-)(1); R = Cl, DeltaH = 23.7 kcal mol(-)(1), DeltaS = +33 cal K(-)(1) mol(-)(1)). With [Ni(SC(6)H(4)NO(2)-4)(2)(dppe)] a more complicated rate law is observed consistent with a mechanism in which initial hydrogen-bonding of [lutH](+) to the complex precedes intramolecular proton transfer. It seems likely that all the derivatives operate by this mechanism, but only with R = NO(2) (the most electron-withdrawing substituent) does the intramolecular proton transfer step become sufficiently slow to result in the change in kinetics. Studies with [lutD](+) show that the rates of proton transfer to [Ni(SC(6)H(4)R-4)(2)(dppe)] (R = Me or Cl) are associated with negligible kinetic isotope effect. The possible reasons for this are discussed. The rates of proton transfer to [Ni(SC(6)H(4)R-4)(2)(dppe)] vary with the 4-R-substituent, and the Hammett plot is markedly nonlinear. This unusual behavior is attributable to the electronic influence of R which affects the electron density at the sulfur.     

Structure and reactivity of bis(silyl) dihydride complexes (PMe(3))(3)Ru(SiR(3))(2)(H)(2): model compounds and real intermediates in a dehydrogenative C-Si bond forming reaction

A series of stable complexes, (PMe(3))(3)Ru(SiR(3))(2)(H)(2) ((SiR(3))(2) = (SiH(2)Ph)(2), 3a; (SiHPh(2))(2), 3b; (SiMe(2)CH(2)CH(2)SiMe(2)), 3c), has been synthesized by the reaction of hydridosilanes with (PMe(3))(3)Ru(SiMe(3))H(3) or (PMe(3))(4)Ru(SiMe(3))H. Compounds 3a and 3c adopt overall pentagonal bipyramidal geometries in solution and the solid state, with phosphine and silyl ligands defining trigonal bipyramids and ruthenium hydrides arranged in the equatorial plane. Compound 3a exhibits meridional phosphines, with both silyl ligands equatorial, whereas the constraints of the chelate in 3c result in both axial and equatorial silyl environments and facial phosphines. Although there is no evidence for agostic Si-H interactions in 3a and 3b, the equatorial silyl group in 3c is in close contact with one hydride (1.81(4) A) and is moderately close to the other hydride (2.15(3) A) in the solid state and solution (nu(Ru.H.Si) = 1740 cm(-)(1) and nu(RuH) = 1940 cm(-)(1)). The analogous bis(silyl) dihydride, (PMe(3))(3)Ru(SiMe(3))(2)(H)(2) (3d), is not stable at room temperature, but can be generated in situ at low temperature from the 16e(-) complex (PMe(3))(3)Ru(SiMe(3))H (1) and HSiMe(3). Complexes 3b and 3d have been characterized by multinuclear, variable temperature NMR and appear to be isostructural with 3a. All four complexes exhibit dynamic NMR spectra, but the slow exchange limit could not be observed for 3c. Treatment of 1 with HSiMe(3) at room temperature leads to formation of (PMe(3))(3)Ru(SiMe(2)CH(2)SiMe(3))H(3) (4b) via a CH functionalization process critical to catalytic dehydrocoupling of HSiMe(3) at higher temperatures. Closer inspection of this reaction between -110 and -10 degrees C by NMR reveals a plethora of silyl hydride phosphine complexes formed by ligand redistribution prior to CH activation. Above ca. 0 degrees C this mixture converts cleanly via silane dehydrogenation to the very stable tris(phosphine) trihydride carbosilyl complex 4b. The structure of 4b was determined crystallographically and exhibits a tetrahedral P(3)Si environment around the metal with the three hydrides adjacent to silicon and capping the P(2)Si faces. Although strong Si.HRu interactions are not indicated in the structure or by IR, the HSi distances (2.00(4) - 2.09(4) A) and average coupling constant (J(SiH) = 25 Hz) suggest some degree of nonclassical SiH bonding in the RuH(3)Si moiety. The least hindered complex, 3a, reacts with carbon monoxide principally via an H(2) elimination pathway to yield mer-(PMe(3))(3)(CO)Ru(SiH(2)Ph)(2), with SiH elimination as a minor process. However, only SiH elimination and formation of (PMe(3))(3)(CO)Ru(SiR(3))H is observed for 3b-d. The most hindered bis(silyl) complex, 3d, is extremely labile and even in the absence of CO undergoes SiH reductive elimination to generate the 16e(-) species 1 (DeltaH(SiH)(-)(elim) = 11.0 +/- 0.6 kcal x mol(-)(1) and DeltaS(SiH)(-)(elim) = 40 +/- 2 cal x mol(-)(1) x K(-)(1); Delta = 9.2 +/- 0.8 kcal x mol(-)(1) and Delta = 9 +/- 3 cal x mol(-)(1).K(-)(1)). The minimum barrier for the H(2) reductive elimination can be estimated, and is higher than that for silane elimination at temperatures above ca. -50 degrees C. The thermodynamic preferences for oxidative additions to 1 are dominated by entropy contributions and steric effects. Addition of H(2) is by far most favorable, whereas the relative aptitudes for intramolecular silyl CH activation and intermolecular SiH addition are strongly dependent on temperature (DeltaH(SiH)(-)(add) = -11.0 +/- 0.6 kcal x mol(-)(1) and DeltaS(SiH)(-)(add) = -40 +/- 2 cal.mol(-)(1) x K(-)(1); DeltaH(beta)(-CH)(-)(add) = -2.7 +/- 0.3 kcal x mol(-)(1) and DeltaS(beta)(-CH)(-)(add) = -6 +/- 1 cal x mol(-)(1) x K(-)(1)). Kinetic preferences for oxidative additions to 1 - intermolecular SiH and intramolecular CH - have been also quantified: Delta = -1.8 +/- 0.8 kcal x mol(-)(1) and Delta = -31 +/- 3 cal x mol(-)(1).K(-)(1); Delta = 16.4 +/- 0.6 kcal x mol(-)(1) and Delta = -13 +/- 6 cal x mol(-)(1).K(-)(1). The relative enthalpies of activation (-)(1) x K(-)(1)). Kinetic preferences for oxidative additions to 1 - intermolecular SiH and intramolecular CH - have been also quantified: Delta (H)SiH(add) = 1.8 +/- 0.8 kcal x mol(-)(1) and Delta S((SiH-add) =31+/- 3 cal x mol(-)(1) x K(-)(1); Delta S (SiH -add) = 16.4 +/- 0.6 kcal x mol(-)(1) and =Delta S (SiH -CH -add) =13+/- 6 cal x mol(-)(1) x K(-)(1). The relative enthalpies of activation are interpreted in terms of strong SiH sigma-complex formation - and much weaker CH coordination - in the transition state for oxidative addition.     

Unusual equilibria involving group 4 amides, silyl complexes, and silyl anions via ligand exchange reactions

Silyl anion SiButPh2- (2) was found to substitute an amide ligand in Zr(NMe2)4 (3) to give the disilyl complex Zr(NMe2)3(SiButPh2)2- (1a) and Zr(NMe2)5- (1b) in THF. The reaction is reversible, and nucleophilic amide NMe2- attacks the Zr-SiButPh2 bonds in 1a or Zr(NMe2)3(SiButPh2) in the reverse reaction, leading to an unusual ligand exchange equilibrium 2 3 + 2 2 right harpoon over left harpoon 1a + 1b (eq 1). The silyl anion 2 selectively attacks the -N(SiMe3)2 ligand in Zr(NMe2)3[N(SiMe3)2] (6) to give 1a and N(SiMe3)2- (7). Reversible reaction occurs as well, where 7 selectively substitutes the silyl ligand in Zr(NMe2)3(SiButPh2)2- (1a) or Zr(NMe2)3(SiButPh2), giving the equilibrium 6 + 2 2 right harpoon over left harpoon 1a + 7 (eq 3). The thermodynamics of these equilibria has been studied: For eq 1, DeltaH degrees = -8.3(0.2) kcal/mol, DeltaS degrees = -23.3(0.9) eu, and DeltaG degrees 298K = -1.4(0.5) kcal/mol at 298 K; for eq 3, DeltaH degrees = -1.61(0.12) kcal/mol, DeltaS degrees = -2.6(0.5) eu, and DeltaG degrees 298K = -0.8(0.3) kcal/mol. In both equilibria, the enthalpy changes for the forward reactions outweigh the entropy changes, and therefore the substitutions of amide ligands in Zr(NMe2)4 (3) and Zr(NMe2)3[N(SiMe3)2] (6) to afford the disilyl complex 1a are thermodynamically favored. The following equilibria were also observed and studied: Zr(NMe2)3[N(SiMe3)2] (6) + Si(SiMe3)3- (9) right harpoon over left harpoon Zr(NMe2)3[Si(SiMe3)3] (10) + N(SiMe3)2- (7) and Zr(NMe2)4 (3) + 9 right harpoon over left harpoon 10 + Zr(NMe2)5- (1b).     

Molecular encapsulation via metal-to-ligand coordination in a Cu(I)-folded molecular basket

A molecular basket, composed of a semirigid C3v symmetric tris-norbornadiene framework and three pyridine flaps at the rim, has been shown to coordinate to a Cu(I) cation and thereby fold in a multivalent fashion. The assembly was effective (Ka = 1.73 +/- 0.08 x 10(5) M(-1)) and driven by enthalpy (DeltaH(o) = -7.2 +/- 0.1 kcal/mol, DeltaS(o) = -0.25 eu). Variable temperature (1)H NMR studies, assisted with 2D COSY and ROESY investigations, revealed the existence of Cu(I)-folded basket 10b with a molecule of acetonitrile occupying its interior and coordinated to the metal. Interestingly, 10b is in equilibrium with Cu(I)-folded 10a , whose inner space is solvated by acetone or chloroform. The incorporation of a molecule of acetonitrile inside 10a was found to be driven by enthalpy (DeltaH(o) = -3.3 +/- 0.1 kcal/mol), with an apparent loss in entropy (DeltaS(o) = -9.4 +/- 0.4 eu); this is congruent with a complete immobilization of acetonitrile and release of a "loosely" encapsulated solvent molecule during 10a/b interconversion. From an Eyring plot, the activation enthalpy for incorporating acetonitrile into 10a was found to be positive (DeltaH(double dagger) = 6.5 +/- 0.5 kcal/mol), while the activation entropy was negative (DeltaS(double dagger) = -20 +/- 2 eu). The results are in agreement with an exchange mechanism whereby acetonitrile "slips" into an "empty" basket through its side aperture. In fact, DFT (BP86) calculations are in favor of such a mechanistic scenario; the calculations suggest that opening of the basket's rim to exchange guests is energetically demanding and therefore less feasible.     

Reductive elimination/oxidative addition of carbon-hydrogen bonds at Pt(IV)/Pt(II) centers: mechanistic studies of the solution thermolyses of Tp(Me2)Pt(CH3)2H

Reductive elimination of methane occurs upon solution thermolysis of kappa(3)-Tp(Me)2Pt(IV)(CH(3))(2)H (1, Tp(Me)2 = hydridotris(3,5-dimethylpyrazolyl)borate). The platinum product of this reaction is determined by the solvent. C-D bond activation occurs after methane elimination in benzene-d(6), to yield kappa(3)-Tp(Me)2Pt(IV)(CH(3))(C(6)D(5))D (2-d(6)), which undergoes a second reductive elimination/oxidative addition reaction to yield isotopically labeled methane and kappa(3)-Tp(Me)2Pt(IV)(C(6)D(5))(2)D (3-d(11)). In contrast, kappa(2)-Tp(Me)2Pt(II)(CH(3))(NCCD(3)) (4) was obtained in the presence of acetonitrile-d(3), after elimination of methane from 1. Reductive elimination of methane from these Pt(IV) complexes follows first-order kinetics, and the observed reaction rates are nearly independent of solvent. Virtually identical activation parameters (DeltaH(++)(obs) = 35.0 +/- 1.1 kcal/mol, DeltaS(++)(obs) = 13 +/- 3 eu) were measured for the reductive elimination of methane from 1 in both benzene-d(6) and toluene-d(8). A lower energy process (DeltaH(++)(scr) = 26 +/- 1 kcal/mol, DeltaS(++)(scr) = 1 +/- 4 eu) scrambles hydrogen atoms of 1 between the methyl and hydride positions, as confirmed by monitoring the equilibration of kappa(3)-Tp(Me)()2Pt(IV)(CH(3))(2)D (1-d(1)()) with its scrambled isotopomer, kappa(3)-Tp(Me)2Pt(IV)(CH(3))(CH(2)D)H (1-d(1'). The sigma-methane complex kappa(2)-Tp(Me)2Pt(II)(CH(3))(CH(4)) is proposed as a common intermediate in both the scrambling and reductive elimination processes. Kinetic results are consistent with rate-determining dissociative loss of methane from this intermediate to produce the coordinatively unsaturated intermediate [Tp(Me)2Pt(II)(CH(3))], which reacts rapidly with solvent. The difference in activation enthalpies for the H/D scrambling and C-H reductive elimination provides a lower limit for the binding enthalpy of methane to [Tp(Me)2Pt(II)(CH(3))] of 9 +/- 2 kcal/mol.     

Deprotonation reactions of zirconium and hafnium amide complexes H2N-M[N(SiMe3)2]3 and subsequent silyl migration from amide -N(SiMe3)2 to imide =NH ligands

Ammonolysis of previously reported Cl-M[N(SiMe3)2]3 (M = Zr, 1a; Hf, 1b) leads to the formation of peramides H2N-M[N(SiMe3)2]3 (M = Zr, 2a; Hf, 2b) which upon deprotonation by LiN(SiMe3)2 or Li(THF)3SiPh2But yields imides Li+(THF)n{HN(-)-M[N(SiMe3)2]3} (M = Zr, 3a; Hf, 3b). One -SiMe3 group in 3a-b undergoes silyl migration from a -N(SiMe3)2 ligand to the imide =NH ligand to give Li+(THF)2{Me3SiN(-)-M[NH(SiMe3)][N(SiMe3)2]2} (M = Zr, 4a; Hf, 4b) containing an imide =N(SiMe3) ligand. The kinetics of the 3a --> 4a conversion was investigated between 290 and 315 K and was first-order with respect to 3a. The activation parameters for this silyl migration are DeltaH++ = 13.3(1.3) kcal/mol and DeltaS++ = -34(3) eu in solutions of 3a (in toluene-d8 with 1.07 M THF) prepared in situ. THF in the mixed solvent promoted the 3a --> 4a reaction. The effect of THF on the rate constants of the conversion has been studied, and the kinetics of the reaction was 3.4(0.6)th order with respect to THF. Crystal and molecular structures of H2N-Zr[N(SiMe3)2]3 (2a) and 4a-b have been determined.     

Temperature-dependent coordination of phosphine to five-coordinate alkenylruthenium complexes

The red, five-coordinate complexes Ru(CO)Cl(PPh(3))2(CH=CHPh) and [Ru(CO)Cl(PPh(3))2]2(mu-CH=CHC(6)H(4)CH=CH) undergo reversible coordination of PPh(3) at low temperature to produce the pale yellow, six-coordinate complexes Ru(CO)Cl(PPh(3))3(CH=CHPh) and [Ru(CO)Cl(PPh(3))3]2(mu-CH=CHC(6)H(4)CH=CH). X-ray crystal structures of the latter complex and of the hydride complex RuH(CO)Cl(PPh(3))3 were obtained. 1H and 31P NMR spectra between 20 and -70 degrees C exhibit large changes in both equilibrium constants and dynamic effects. Thermodynamic parameters, DeltaH = -17.5 +/- 2.0 kcal/mol and DeltaS = -57.5 +/- 7.6 eu, were obtained for PPh(3) coordination to the monoruthenium complex, and activation parameters, DeltaH = 20.6 +/- 0.7 kcal/mol and DeltaS = 41.6 +/- 2.0 eu, were obtained for the reverse decoordination. Coordination of PPh(3) was not observed upon cooling of the shorter bridged complex, [Ru(CO)Cl(PPh(3))2]2(mu-CH=CHCH=CH).     

Reversible adduct formation of trimethylgallium and trimethylindium with ammonia

We have used gas-phase infrared spectroscopy to determine the equilibrium constant (K(p)) for the formation of (CH(3))(3)Ga:NH(3) and (CH(3))(3)In:NH(3) adducts in the 80-230 degrees C range. In this temperature range, and at reactant concentrations typically used for metal organic chemical vapor deposition, the dominant chemical reaction is reversible adduct formation/dissociation. Reaction enthalpies and entropies are extracted from the temperature dependence of K(p), yielding DeltaH(Ga) = -16.3 +/- 0.5 kcal/mol, DeltaS(Ga) = -32.4 +/- 1.2 eu, and DeltaH(In) = -15.0 +/- 0.6 kcal/mol, DeltaS(In) = -30.3 +/- 1.4 eu. These results will aid current and future modeling efforts, as well as advance our general understanding of the group-III nitride deposition process.     

Zirconium, hafnium, and tantalum amide silyl complexes: their preparation and conversion to metallaheterocyclic complexes via gamma-hydrogen abstraction by silyl ligands

New transition metal silyl amide complexes (Me(2)N)(3)Ta[N(SiMe(3))(2)](SiPh(2)Bu(t)) (1) and (Me(2)N)M[N(SiMe(3))(2)](2)(SiPh(2)Bu(t)) (M = Zr, 2a, and Hf, 2b) were found to undergo gamma-H abstraction by the silyl ligands to give metallaheterocyclic complexes (3) and (M = Zr, 4a, and Hf, 4b), respectively. The conversion of 1 to 3 follows first-order kinetics with DeltaH() = 23.6(1.6) kcal/mol and DeltaS() = 3(5) eu between 288 and 313 K. The formation of 4a from (Me(2)N)Zr[N(SiMe(3))(2)](2)Cl (5a) and Li(THF)(2)SiPh(2)Bu(t) (6) involves the formation of the intermediate 2a, followed by gamma-H abstraction. Kinetic studies of these consecutive reactions, a second-order reaction to give 2a and then a first-order gamma-H abstraction to give 4a, were conducted by an analytical method and a numerical method. At 278 K, the rate constants k(1) and k(2) for the two consecutive reactions are 2.17(0.03) x 10(-)(3) M(-)(1) s(-)(1) and 5.80(0.15) x 10(-)(5) s(-)(1) by the analytical method. The current work is a rare kinetic study of the A + B --> C --> D (+ E) consecutive reactions. Kinetic studies of the formation of a metallaheterocyclic moiety have, to our knowledge, not been reported. In addition, gamma-H abstraction by a silyl ligand to give such a metallaheterocyclic moiety is new. Theoretical investigations of the gamma-H abstraction by silyl ligands have been conducted by density functional theory calculations at the Becke3LYP (B3LYP) level, and they revealed that the formation of the metallacyclic complexes through gamma-H abstraction is entropically driven. X-ray crystal structures of (Me(2)N)(3)Ta[N(SiMe(3))(2)](SiPh(2)Bu(t)) (1), (Me(2)N)Zr[N(SiMe(3))(2)](2)Cl (5a), and (M = Zr, 4a, and Hf, 4b) are also reported.     

Gas-phase thermochemical properties of pyrimidine nucleobases

The gas-phase acidity and proton affinity of thymine, cytosine, and 1-methyl cytosine have been examined using both theoretical (B3LYP/6-31+G*) and experimental (bracketing, Cooks kinetic) methods. This paper represents a comprehensive examination of multiple acidic sites of thymine and cytosine and of the acidity and proton affinity of thymine, cytosine, and 1-methyl cytosine. Thymine exists as the most stable "canonical" tautomer in the gas phase, with a DeltaH(acid) of 335 +/- 4 kcal mol(-1) (DeltaG(acid) = 328 +/- 4 kcal mol(-1)) for the more acidic N1-H. The acidity of the less acidic N3-H site has not, heretofore, been measured; we bracket a DeltaH(acid) value of 346 +/- 3 kcal mol(-1) (DeltaG(acid) = 339 +/- 3 kcal mol(-1)). The proton affinity (PA = DeltaH) of thymine is measured to be 211 +/- 3 kcal mol(-1) (GB = DeltaG = 203 +/- 3 kcal mol(-1)). Cytosine is known to have several stable tautomers in the gas phase in contrast to in solution, where the canonical tautomer predominates. Using bracketing methods in an FTMS, we measure a DeltaH(acid) for the more acidic site of 342 +/- 3 kcal mol(-1) (DeltaG(acid) = 335 +/- 3 kcal mol(-1)). The DeltaH(acid) of the less acidic site, previously unknown, is 352 +/- 4 kcal mol(-1) (345 +/- 4 kcal mol(-1)). The proton affinity is 228 +/- 3 kcal mol(-1) (GB = 220 +/- 3 kcal mol(-1)). Comparison of these values to calculations indicates that we most likely have a mixture of the canonical tautomer and two enol tautomers and possibly an imine tautomer under our conditions in the gas phase. We also measure the acidity and proton affinity of cytosine using the extended Cooks kinetic method. We form the proton-bound dimers via electrospray of an aqueous solution, which favors cytosine in the canonical form. The acidity of cytosine using this method is DeltaH(acid) = 343 +/- 3 kcal mol(-1), PA = 227 +/- 3 kcal mol(-1). We also examined 1-methyl cytosine, which has fewer accessible tautomers than cytosine. We measure a DeltaH(acid) of 349 +/- 3 kcal mol(-1) (DeltaG(acid) = 342 +/- 3 kcal mol(-1)) and a PA of 230 +/- 3 kcal mol(-1) (GB = 223 +/- 3 kcal mol(-1)). Our ultimate goal is to understand the intrinsic reactivity of nucleobases; gas-phase acidic and basic properties are of interest for chemical reasons and also possibly for biological purposes because biological media can be quite nonpolar.     

Nitrosyl derivatives of diiron(I) dithiolates mimic the structure and Lewis acidity of the [FeFe]-hydrogenase active site

This study probes the impact of electronic asymmetry of diiron(I) dithiolato carbonyls. Treatment of Fe2(S2C(n)H(2n))(CO)(6-x)(PMe3)x compounds (n = 2, 3; x = 1, 2, 3) with NOBF4 gave the derivatives [Fe2(S2C(n)H(2n))(CO)(5-x)(PMe3)x(NO)]BF4, which are electronically unsymmetrical because of the presence of a single NO(+) ligand. Whereas the monophosphine derivative is largely undistorted, the bis(PMe3) derivatives are distorted such that the CO ligand on the Fe(CO)(PMe3)(NO)(+) subunit is semibridging. Two isomers of [Fe2(S2C3H6)(CO)3(PMe3)2(NO)]BF4 were characterized spectroscopically and crystallographically. Each isomer features electron-rich Fe(CO)2PMe3 and electrophilic Fe(CO)(PMe3)(NO)(+) subunits. These species are in equilibrium with an unobserved isomer that reversibly binds CO (DeltaH = -35 kJ/mol, DeltaS = -139 J mol(-1) K(-1)) to give the symmetrical adduct [Fe2(S2C3H6)(mu-NO)(CO)4(PMe3)2]BF4. In contrast to Fe2(S2C3H6)(CO)4(PMe3)2, the bis(PMe3) nitrosyl complexes readily undergo CO substitution to give the (PMe3)3 derivatives. The nitrosyl complexes reduce at potentials that are approximately 1 V milder than their carbonyl counterparts. Results of density functional theory calculations, specifically natural bond orbital analysis, reinforce the electronic resemblance of the nitrosyl complexes to the corresponding mixed-valence diiron complexes. Unlike other diiron dithiolato carbonyls, these species undergo reversible reductions at mild potentials. The results show that the novel structural and chemical features associated with mixed-valence diiron dithiolates (the so-called H(ox) models) can be replicated in the absence of mixed-valency by the introduction of electronic asymmetry.     

{H(3-(t)Bupz)B(3-(t)Bupz)(2)-eta(2)}AlEt(2) and {H(3-(t)Bupz)B(3-(t)Bupz)(5-(t)Bupz)-eta(2)}AlEt(2). Structure, Dynamic Solution Behavior, and the 1,2-Borotropic Shift

HB(3-(t)Bupz)(3)Tl and AlEt(3) in benzene yield {H(3-(t)Bupz)B(3-(t)Bupz)(2)-eta(2)}AlEt(2), 1, as a hydrocarbon-soluble crystalline solid. Compound 1 is also obtained in a related reaction involving ClAlEt(2) via a preferential metathesis of the Al-Cl bond. Crystal data for 1 at -101 degrees C: a = 11.770(3) ?, b = 11.054(3) ?, c = 21.973(6) ?, beta = 95.57(1) degrees, Z = 4, space group P2(1)/a. In 1 the Al center is four-coordinate with Al-C = 1.97(1) ? and Al-N = 1.99(1) ? and with C-Al-C = 127 degrees and N-Al-N = 101 degrees being the largest and smallest angles, respectively. The average N-B-N angle is 109(1) degrees. In toluene-d(8) and tetrahydrofuran-d(8), 1 shows two types of 3-(t)Bupz groups in the integral ratio 2:1 and two distinct ethyl ligands. At low temperature there is a broadening of the 3-(t)Bupz singlet that is assigned to the eta(2)-(t)Bupz ligands. Up to +60 degrees C, compound 1 is nonfluxional on the NMR time scale but does isomerize to {H(3-(t)Bupz)B(3-(t)Bupz)(5-(t)Bupz)-eta(2)}AlEt(2), 2. Crystal data for 2 at -172 degrees C: a = 29.235(5) ?, b = 11.298(1) ?, c = 22.033(3) ?, beta = 129.66(1) degrees, Z = 8, space group = C2/c. In 2 there is a pseudotetrahedral Al center with Al-C = 1.97(1) ? (average) and Al-N = 1.95(1) ? (average) and with C-Al-C = 119 degrees and N-Al-N = 98 degrees as the largest and smallest angles, respectively. The average N-B-N angle is 108(1) degrees. In 2 the eta(2)-tris(alkylpyrazolyl)borate ligand isomerizes by a 1,2-borotropic shift to give one 5-(t)Bupz fragment that is part of the eta(2)-N,N' aluminum-bonded ligand. Variable-temperature (1)H NMR spectra of 2 in toluene-d(8) and THF-d(8) reveal temperature-dependent exchange involving the 3-(t)Bupz moieties, with more rapid site exchange in toluene-d(8) than in THF-d(8). At low temperature there are two ethyl signals, one of which indicates diastereotopic methylene protons, as well as three (t)Bu signals in the ratio 1:1:1. The dynamic behavior of 2 is consistent with an eta(2) right harpoon over left harpoon eta(3) exchange process as opposed to an eta(2) right harpoon over left harpoon eta(1) exchange wherein the Al center is transiently three-coordinate. The isomerization of 1 to 2 has been studied in benzene-d(6) (DeltaH() = 21.0(2) kcal/mol, DeltaS() = -15(1) eu) and THF-d(8) (DeltaH() = 18.3(4) kcal/mol, DeltaS() = -15(1) eu) and compared to a related isomerization involving {H(2)B(3-(t)Bupz)(2)-eta(2)}AlMe(2) reported by Parkin and Looney [Polyhedron 1990, 9, 265] in benzene-d(6) (DeltaH() = 34.5(8) kcal/mol, DeltaS() = 6(2) eu). It is proposed that the rate-determining 1,2-borotropic shift in the 1 --> 2 reaction occurs in a noncoordinating (t)Bupz group and that this is followed by a rapid associative interchange of pz groups wherein the sterically less demanding 5-(t)Bupz moiety remains bound to the metal.     

Discrete bridging and terminal copper carbenes in copper-catalyzed cyclopropanation

The Cu(I) beta-diketiminate [Me2NN]Cu(eta2-ethylene) (2) catalyzes the cyclopropanation of styrene with N2CPh2 to give 1,1,2-triphenylcyclopropane in 67% yield. Addition of N2CPh2 to 2 equiv of 2 allows for the isolation of the dicopper carbene [[Me2NN]Cu]2(mu-CPh2) (3) in which the diphenylcarbene moiety is symmetrically bound between two [Me2NN]Cu fragments (Cu-C = 1.922(4) and 1.930(4) A) with a Cu-Cu separation of 2.4635(7) A. In toluene-d8 solution, 3 reversibly dissociates a [Me2NN]Cu fragment to give [Me2NN]Cu(toluene) and the terminal carbene [Me2NN]Cu=CPh2. Dicopper carbene 3 reacts with 3 equiv of styrene to give 1,1,2-triphenylcyclopropane and 2 equiv of [Me2NN]Cu(eta2-styrene) within minutes. DFT studies with simplified ligands indicate a stronger Cu-C pi-back-bonding interaction from two Cu(I) centers to the carbene acceptor orbital in a dicopper carbene than that present in a monocopper carbene. Nonetheless, the terminal carbene [Me3NN]Cu=CPh2 (8) that possesses a p-methyl group on each beta-diketiminato N-aryl ring may be isolated and exhibits a shortened Cu-C distance of 1.834(3) A. The stoichiometric cyclopropanation of styrene by 8 in 1,4-dioxane is first-order in both copper carbene 8 and styrene with activation parameters DeltaH = 10.4(3) kcal/mol and DeltaS = -32.3(9) cal/mol.K. In 1,4-dioxane, 8 decomposes to Ph2C=CPh2 via first-order kinetics with activation parameters DeltaH = 21(1) kcal/mol and DeltaS = -8(3) cal/mol.K. Arene solutions of thermally sensitive terminal carbene 8 decompose to [Me3NN]Cu(arene), which reacts with 8 still present in solution to give the more thermally stable [[Me3NN]Cu]2(mu-CPh2).