The reaction of RPCl2 [R = (6-Me-2-pyridyl)(SiMe3)(2)C-] with LiAlH4 i
n Et2O gives the novel N-functionalised disecondary diphosphane compou
nd [ROT)P-P(H)R] rather than the expected phosphorus dihydride complex
RPH2; the meso and rac isomers of the diphosphane crystallise separat
ely with the meso isomer being structurally authenticated.