Recently, experimental evidence has been obtained for the existence of
dianionic carbon clusters as small as C7(2-). So far, no theoretical
evidence has been achieved for the electronic stability of C-7(2-) , w
hich is attributed to the underlying assumption of C-7(2-) having a li
near structure. Linear, quasi-linear and trigonal planar atomic arrang
ements for C-7(2-) are discussed. At the latter 7 structure C-7(2-) is
predicted to be both stable with respect to vertical and adiabatic el
ectron autodetachment and stable with respect to all fragmentation pat
hways. The reasons leading to the electronic stability of the trigonal
C-7(2-) dianion are discussed and illuminated by drawing a connection
with the structurally related MX3(2-) alkali halides. Some remarks ar
e made on larger dianionic carbon clusters.