**Introduction to cis-[Au(CH₄)(OH)Cl₂]** cis-[Au(CH₄)(OH)Cl₂] is a novel organogold(III) complex featuring a rare methane (CH₄) ligand coordinated to a gold center in a cis configuration alongside hydroxyl (OH⁻) and two chloride (Cl⁻) groups. This compound represents an intriguing example of gold’s ability to stabilize unconventional ligands, offering insights into metal-alkane interactions and potential catalytic applications. The cis geometry influences its reactivity and stability, making it a subject of interest in inorganic and organometallic chemistry. Studies on such complexes could advance understanding of C–H bond activation and gold-mediated transformations. While its practical uses are still exploratory, cis-[Au(CH₄)(OH)Cl₂] holds promise for fundamental research in coordination chemistry and materials science. (Word count: ~100)
Preparation Process: To prepare **cis-[Au(CH4)(OH)Cl2]**, follow these steps: 1. Start with **AuCl3** dissolved in anhydrous ethanol under nitrogen. 2. Add **trimethyloxonium tetrafluoroborate** ([Me3O][BF4]) to methylate Au(III), forming **[Au(CH3)Cl3]⁻**. 3. Reduce the solution with **NaBH4** to generate **[Au(CH3)Cl2]** as an intermediate. 4. React with **H2O2** in a basic aqueous solution (pH ~9) to introduce the hydroxyl ligand. 5. Maintain low temperature (0–5°C) to favor the **cis**-configuration. 6. Isolate the product via vacuum filtration and wash with cold water. 7. Characterize by **NMR** and **X-ray crystallography**. (Note: CH4 coordination is highly unstable; this method assumes a methyl complex.)
Usage Scenarios: The compound **cis-[Au(CH4)(OH)Cl2]** is a rare example of a gold(I) complex featuring a methane (CH4) ligand, stabilized in a cis-configuration with hydroxide (OH) and two chloride (Cl) ligands. Its primary use lies in experimental inorganic and organometallic chemistry, where it serves as a model for studying weak agostic interactions between transition metals and alkanes. Researchers investigate its structure and reactivity to understand gold’s bonding behavior with σ-donor ligands, which could inform catalytic applications, such as C–H activation processes. Additionally, it may contribute to the development of novel gold-based catalysts for organic transformations or materials science applications.