2indenyl

2-Indenyl is an organic compound with the chemical formula C9H7. It is a derivative of indene, a bicyclic hydrocarbon. The indenyl group consists of a five-membered ring fused to a benzene ring, with the attachment point for a substituent occurring at the second position of the five-membered ring. In the case of 2-indenyl, this attachment point is where another atom or group is bonded.

The indenyl moiety is particularly significant in organometallic chemistry. When it acts as a ligand, it typically binds to a metal center in an η5 (pentahapto) fashion, meaning all five carbon atoms of the five-membered ring are coordinated to the metal. However, the 2-indenyl ligand can also exhibit η3 coordination. The isomer, 1-indenyl, is more commonly encountered and studied due to its more facile synthesis and distinct coordination properties.

2-Indenyl compounds are often found as intermediates in organic synthesis or as components in more complex molecular structures. Their electronic properties and steric bulk can be influenced by substituents attached to the indenyl framework, making them useful building blocks for designing molecules with specific functionalities. Research into indenyl chemistry, including its 2-isomer, continues to explore new synthetic routes and applications in catalysis and materials science.