dodecacarbonyls

Dodecacarbonyls are a class of organometallic compounds that contain twelve carbonyl ligands (CO groups) coordinated to a central metal atom. These compounds are notable for their high symmetry and the strong π-backbonding interaction between the metal and the carbonyl ligands. The general formula for dodecacarbonyls is M(CO)12, where M represents the central metal atom.

The most well-known dodecacarbonyl is chromium dodecacarbonyl, Cr(CO)12. This compound was first synthesized in 1962 and is a bright yellow, crystalline solid. It is highly reactive and can be used as a precursor for the synthesis of other chromium-containing compounds. The compound is also notable for its high symmetry, with the twelve carbonyl ligands arranged in an octahedral geometry around the chromium atom.

Other metals that can form dodecacarbonyls include molybdenum, tungsten, and rhenium. These compounds are typically synthesized by the reaction of the metal with carbon monoxide under high pressure and temperature. The dodecacarbonyls of these metals are also highly reactive and can be used as precursors for the synthesis of other metal-containing compounds.

Dodecacarbonyls are of interest to chemists due to their high symmetry and the strong π-backbonding interaction between the metal and the carbonyl ligands. These compounds can be used as models for the study of metal-carbonyl bonding and can also be used as precursors for the synthesis of other metal-containing compounds. However, due to their high reactivity, dodecacarbonyls must be handled with care and are typically stored under an inert atmosphere.