A Molecular Silicon Cluster with a “Naked” Vertex Atom

Abstract

Reaction of a disilenide with SiCl4 produces a silicon cluster with π-bonding topology reminiscent of a Möbius array, as determined by structural data and DFT calculations (see picture). Partially hydrogenated silicon clusters are important for the optical properties of many silicon materials. The availability of a derivative that is stable in the absence of surrounding Si0 yields insight into the structure of such compounds.