Synthesis and structure of [{As2(NCy)4}2Li4], containing an imido As(III) dianion

Abstract

Reaction of [As(NMe₂)₃] with CyNH₂ (1∶1 equivalents), followed by the addition of [CyNHLi] (1 equivalent) gives the heterobimetallic cage complex [{As₂(NCy)₄}₂Li₄], the first example of a complex containing a imido As(III) anion; the missing link in a series of group 15 anions of the type [{E₂(NCy)₄}]^2– (E = Bi, Sb and P).