As–as bond forming and As–C bond cleavage in the formation of [Li(thf){As(But)As(But)2}]2(thf = tetrahydrofuran). X-Ray structure of an unusual lithium organoarsenide

Abstract

[Li(thf){As(Bu^t)As(Bu^t)₂}]₂(thf = tetrahydrofuran), produced from the interaction of LiAs(Bu^t)₂ with MgBr₂(2 : 1) in thf, is a dimer with two Li atoms bridging two–As(Bu^t)As(Bu^t)₂ groups and with a planar Li₂As₂ core [Li–As 2.58(2), As–As 2.403(2), Li ⋯ Li 3.290(3)Å].