Models for isomeric bispidine complexes - Accurate prediction versus thorough understanding

Abstract

Bispidine transition-metal complexes possess several unique properties. We suggest these to be derived primarily from the rigid ligand backbone, which enforces specific geometries on the metal center and also produces a large elasticity in the coordination geometries. The unexpected trend of complex stabilities along the series of the first transition-metal row, isomerism of various types and the reactivities of the iron systems towards oxygen activation are reviewed on the basis of the structures enforced by the bispidine ligands; various computational approaches are discussed, which might assist a thorough understanding of the various molecular properties. © 2008 Springer.