Structure and bonding of [Pd2Sn18]4−: an interesting example of the mutual delocalisation phenomenon

Abstract

In this article, we have presented a computational analysis on the structure and bonding of [Pd₂Sn₁₈]⁴⁻ and illustrated that it serves as an interesting example of OMO–UMO mutual delocalisation with two identical [PdE₉]²⁻ fragments. We have also illustrated the alternative roles that could be played by an [ME₉]²⁻/[E₉]²⁻ fragment, a simple L-type donor and a lone-pair acceptor.