2003 AIPMT Coordination CompoundsOrganometallic Compounds Medium Question 2 of 2 in Organometallic Compounds

Among the following which is not the $\pi$-bonded organometallic compound :

A $K[PtCl_3(\eta^2-C_2H_4)]$
B $Fe(\eta^5-C_5H_5)_2$
C $Cr(\eta^6-C_6H_6)_2$
D $(CH_3)_4Sn$

The answer is D.

Solution

In $\pi$-bonded organometallic compounds, the metal is bonded to the $\pi$ electrons of an unsaturated organic molecule. The symbol $\eta^n$ (hapticity) shows how many carbon atoms are bonded to the metal.
$K[PtCl_3(\eta^2-C_2H_4)]$ (Zeise's salt): Pt is bonded to both carbons of ethylene through its $\pi$ electrons; $\pi$-bonded.
$Fe(\eta^5-C_5H_5)_2$ (ferrocene): Fe is sandwiched between two cyclopentadienyl rings, using their $\pi$ electrons; $\pi$-bonded.
$Cr(\eta^6-C_6H_6)_2$ (dibenzene chromium): Cr is sandwiched between two benzene rings; $\pi$-bonded.
$(CH_3)_4Sn$ (tetramethyltin): each methyl group is attached to Sn by an ordinary Sn–C $\sigma$ bond; it is a $\sigma$-bonded organometallic compound.
So $(CH_3)_4Sn$ is not a $\pi$-bonded organometallic compound.

Concept Sigma versus pi bonded organometallics

Organometallic Compounds in past papers

2 questions from this chapter have appeared across 2 exam years.