X-Ray Absorption Spectroscopy of Dimethylcuprates: Evidence for Solvent-Dependent Aggregation

Dimeric in Et ₂ O and DMS, monomeric in THF —the degree of aggregation of dimethylcuprates depends on the solvent [Eq. (a)]. The Cu–Cu distance of 2.82 Å was determined by EXAFS for a dimethylcuprate reagent derived from cuprous halide. In contrast, with cyanide as the counterion, no dimers are formed.