Theoretical studies of [MYR2]n isomers (M = B, Al, Ga; Y = N, P, As; R = H, CH3): structures and energetics of monomeric and dimeric compounds (n = 1, 2)

A series of group 13-15 compounds of the general formula MYR(2)](n) (M = B, Al, Ga; Y = N, P, As; n = 1, 2; R = H, CH(3)) have been theoretically studied at the B3LYP/TZVP level of theory. The stability of different isomer structures is discussed to reveal the competitiveness of group 13-13, group 13-15, and group 15-15 bonding. Preferential bonding patterns and trends in the stability with respect to M and Y are also discussed. For the dimeric compounds, C(2v) symmetric HMYH](2) rings are the lowest in energy, with the single exception of Ga(2)N(2)H(4), for which a somewhat unexpectedly C(2v) symmetric GaNH(2)](2) ring is found to be the energy minimum, followed by the planar H(2)NGaGaNH(2) chain. The higher stability of the GaNH(2) bonding pattern in oligomer compounds may be rationalized in terms of the increasing stability of the oxidation state I as compared to that for the boron and aluminum analogues. Methylation significantly reduces the energetic differences between monomeric MYMe(2) MeMYMe, and Me(2)MY, isomers, especially for the AlP, AlAs, and GaAs systems, thus allowing a variety of structural types to be competitive in energy.