Structural diversity in B7O7+/0/− clusters: emergence of a seven-membered ring and an inverted heart-like ring stabilized by 3c–2e localized bonds

Abstract

Based upon global-minimum searches and first-principles electronic structure calculations, we present the global minimum (GM) structures of B7O7+/0/− systems. The cationic cluster innovatively showcases an inverted heart-like ring structure. For the neutral cluster, the GM structure introduces a seven-membered ring for the first time, forming a planar double-ring framework by fusing a B3O2 five-membered ring with a B4O3 seven-membered ring. The anionic cluster's structure is similar to that of B6O6, but the inclusion of an additional BO unit leads to a three-dimensional structure. Further chemical bonding analysis indicates that the B7O7+ structure exhibits dual aromaticity, and the 3c–2e σ aromaticity of the B3 unit contributes to the enhanced stability of the overall structure. Additionally, B7O7 has a competing co-existing isomer. Its GM structure is predominantly characterized by 10 π aromaticity, contrasting with the isomer exhibiting 11 π/2 σ aromaticity. Similarly, the GM structure of B7O7 displays a slightly lower energy due to its 6 π aromatic nature compared to the 4 π antiaromatic isomer.

Graphical abstract: Structural diversity in B7O7+/0/− clusters: emergence of a seven-membered ring and an inverted heart-like ring stabilized by 3c–2e localized bonds

Supplementary files

Article information

Article type
Paper
Submitted
14 May 2025
Accepted
26 Jun 2025
First published
02 Jul 2025

Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2025, Advance Article

Structural diversity in B7O7+/0/− clusters: emergence of a seven-membered ring and an inverted heart-like ring stabilized by 3c–2e localized bonds

W. Tian, Z. Guo, J. Wang, H. Sun, F. Yang, R. Bao and H. Lv, Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2025, Advance Article , DOI: 10.1039/D5CP01812A

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