Structural and electronic properties of (2,2-trans)-dirhodium(II) tetrakis(N-phenylacetamidate)

We have synthesized and characterized the first known 2,2-trans isomer of the N-substituted dirhodium(II) tetrakisacetamidate, Rh2(RNAc)4, class of compounds. The bis benzonitrile adduct exhibits a unique orthogonal arrangement of the axial aromatic rings in the solid state. Structural and electronic features suggest the presence of π-backbonding.