[ScCl2{N(SiMe3)(2)}(THF)(2)] - a precursor for the synthesis of scandium nitride

[ScCl2{N(SiMe3)(2)}(THF)(2)] (1) has been prepared by the reaction of [ScCl 3(THF)(3)] with the trisamide SC[N(SiMe3)(2)](3) in tetrahydrofurane soluti on forming colourless moisture sensitive crystals, which were characterized by a crystal structure determination. Space group P (1) over bar, Z = 2, l attice dimensions at -50 degrees C: a = 841.4(1), b = 924.2(1), c = 1550.0( 1) pm, alpha = 90.046(7)degrees, beta = 95.671(9)degrees, gamma = 106.066(6 )degrees, R-1 = 0.0329. In the molecular structure of 1 the scandium atom h as a distorted trigonal-bipyramidal coordination with the THF molecules in apical positions. At 400 degrees C 1 is converted into scandium nitride, Sc N, by stepwise leaving of THF and ClSiMe3.