Reaction for symmetrization of ?-C5H5M(CO)nHgI (M=iron, molybdenum, or tungsten)

Abstract

1. The reaction C5H5M(CO)nHgI→[C5H5M(CO)n]2Hg is accomplished by the action of alkaline sodium stannite solution when M=Fe (n=2) or W (n=3), and by the action of either sodium thiosulfate or alkali when M=Mo (n=3). 2. When treated with sodium stannite, [C5H5Mo(CO)3]2Hg cleaves mercury and gives [C5H5Mo(CO)3]2.