44bipyridine

4,4'-Bipyridine, commonly written as 4,4'-bipyridine or 44bipyridine, is an organic ligand consisting of two pyridine rings connected at their 4 positions. Its molecular formula is C10H8N2 and its approximate molar mass is 156.2 g/mol. The molecule is largely planar and rigid, with two pyridinyl nitrogen atoms that can act as coordination sites for metal centers.

In coordination chemistry, 4,4'-bipyridine is a versatile bidentate ligand. Each molecule provides two nitrogen donors, allowing it to bridge between metal centers or link into extended structures. It is commonly used to assemble dinuclear complexes, coordination polymers, and metal–organic frameworks, and it serves as a useful building block in supramolecular and materials chemistry. Its relatively rigid geometry and electronic properties influence the geometry and properties of the resulting metal complexes.

Occurrence and production: 4,4'-Bipyridine is not a naturally occurring compound; it is manufactured industrially and widely available from chemical suppliers. It can be prepared through various synthetic routes in organic chemistry, and several methods are used to access substituted derivatives for specialized applications.

Physical properties and handling: The compound is a solid at room temperature and is typically used in its pure or purified forms for laboratory and industrial applications. It is generally soluble in common organic solvents, with handling guided by standard laboratory safety practices. As with many pyridine derivatives, it should be handled with appropriate precautions to avoid inhalation and skin or eye contact.

Safety: 4,4'-Bipyridine may be irritant and should be handled with standard laboratory protective equipment. Users should consult the material safety data sheet for specific hazards, handling, and disposal guidelines.

See also: 2,2'-bipyridine; 1,10-phenanthroline.