Intra- vs. intermolecular configurations in the three-legged, piano-stool compounds (o, m and p-xylene)Mo(CO)3

The three (η6-xylene)Mo(CO)3 complexes have been prepared and crystallographically characterized to determine the rotational relationship of the arene ring to the undercarriage, as has been suggested by theoretical studies. In fact, no such relationship can be seen, especially when combined with eight examples of structures with Z′ > 1, where both staggered and eclipsed forms are found.

Graphical abstractThe three (η6-xylene)Mo(CO)3 complexes have been prepared and crystallographic characterized to study the rotational relationship of the arene ring to the Mo(CO)3 undercarriage of these three-legged, piano-stool complexes. When viewed as a group, and with additional consideration given to other related systems, it is concluded that, despite theoretical claims otherwise, there is no consistent pattern seen.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide