Clusters of atoms can adopt different atomic arrangements from bulk materials. They often exhibit novel structures and properties, which provide opportunities for a new types of chemical bonding and stoichiometry. Herein we report experimental and theoretical evidence that 8- and 9-atom boron clusters are perfectly planar molecular wheels, with a hepta- or octacoordinated central boron atom, respectively, despite the predominance of three-dimensional structures normally found in bulk boron and its compounds.
Revised: November 10, 2005 |
Published: December 31, 2003
Citation
Zhai H.J., A.N. Alexandrova, K.A. Birch, A.I. Boldyrev, and L.S. Wang. 2003.Hepta- and Octacoordinate Boron in Molecular Wheels of Eight- and Nine-Atom Boron Clusters: Observation and Confirmation.Angewandte Chemie International Edition 42, no. 48:6004-6008.PNNL-SA-40730.