The reaction of the tripod Ligands R'C(CH(2)PR(2))(3) (1a-c) and X(2)P
OCH[CH2P(Ph)(2)](2) (2a-c) with [Rh-I(COD)Cl](2)] is investigated. It
yields tripod rhodium COD complexes [(1a-c)Rh-I(COD)]Y (3a-c) and [(2a
-c)Rh-I(COD)]Y [4a-c; Y = B(Ph)(4), PF6]. The tripod ligand is coordin
ated by all three donor groups in each case, irrespective of the diffe
rent donor capabilities of the coordinating groups. The solid state st
ructure of compounds 3a-c and 4a is determined by X-ray analysis. The
observed coordination polyhedra delineate the variation from the ideal
ized trigonal bipyramide to an idealized quadratic pyramide. In soluti
on the analysis of the NMR spectra shows a rapid intramolecular interc
onversion according to a turnstile pseudo rotation. The complexes 3a a
nd 4a are found to be catalysts for the hydrogenation of prochiral ole
fines.