Some aspects of the reactions between selenium-containing ligands and platinum group metals

2-(2-Pyridyl)benzob]selenophene has been investigated as a possible reagent for palladium. From a consideration of its reactions with diverse metal ions, and the probable structure of the complex formed between the compound and palladium(II) it is postulated that the group may be highly selective for palladium. From the experimental evidence it is suggested that the delocalization of the metal electron density by pi-bond formation between the palladium and selenium atoms is a major factor in determining the stability of the chelated complex.