Cleavage of the SnSn Multiple Bond in a Distannyne by Cyclooctatetraene: Formation of the π‐Bound Inverse Sandwich Complex [(Ar′Sn)2(μ2‐η2:η3‐cot)

Abstract

The syntheses of stable heavier group 14 element alkyne analogues have attracted considerable attention in the last decade. Reactivity studies on these molecules have afforded insights into the nature of the E E triple bonds (E= group 14 element), and have supported the existence of a multiplicity of resonance forms, including those with singlet diradical character. Recently we have shown that the distannyne [Ar’SnSnAr’] (1) (Ar’=C6H3-2,6-(C6H3-2,6iPr2)2) undergoes reversible complexation with two molecules of either ethylene or norbornadiene [Eq. (1)], processes that are considered symmetry-forbidden for alkynes but are enabled by the higher reactivity caused by the strained geometry in the heavier analogues.