6 Carbon, silicon, germanium, tin and lead

Abstract

The chemistry of Group 14 elements is possibly the most diverse area of chemistry that can be found within a single periodic group. This year, there are reports covering the activation of diamond surfaces by perfluoro organic radicals, the synthesis of new Zintl ions and complexes of tin with biological ligands that can lower blood pressure in mammals. The growth in the number of reports covering research in M(14)–M(14) multiply bonded species and M(II) species of low coordination number is impressive, and shows clearly that there is still scope and opportunity for exciting discovery in these areas. Group 14 chemistry remains strong and innovative and is a constant source of inspiration and surprise to any and all who study it.