THE CHEMISTRY OF MIXED 15 16-MAIN-GROUP CLUSTERS/

This review describes the chemistry of anionic mixed 15/16 clusters an d their coordination chemistry with transition metals. The focus is on the heavier elements such as sulfides and selenides of phosphorus, ar senic and antimony. A brief introduction with a historical perspective is followed by the chemistry of soluble anionic clusters, including p reparative methods and structural characteristics. Solids containing r ecognizable anionic fragments (Zintl phases) are also described. Bondi ng is mentioned briefly. Transition metal complexes of these clusters are discussed in some detail and structures and bonding are highlighte d. Neglected areas and future prospects are mentioned.