Solid state structure of P(o-(CF3)Ph)(3) substituted Rh-2(CO)(4) (mu-Cl)(2). Formation of dimeric [Rh-2(CO)(3) (mu-Cl)(2){P(o-(CF3)Ph)(3)}](2)

Reaction of tris(o-trifluoromethylphenyl)phosphane with tetracarbonyldi-mu -chlorodirhodium chloride leads to replacement of one carbonyl group to giv e dimeric units Rh-2(CO)(3)(mu -Cl)(2){P(o-(CF3)Ph)(3)}. The crystal struct ure indicates direct Rh-Rh interactions within and between the primary unit s, confirming the tetranuclear chain compound [Rh-2(CO)(3)(mu -Cl)(2){P(o-( CF3)Ph)(3)}(2) as the actual solid state structure. The phosphane ligands, which are situated at the ends of the chain, prevent further interactions b etween neighboring tetrameric moieties and the formation of an infinite cha in. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science BN. All rights reseved.