Reversible redox behavior between stannole dianion and bistannole-1,2-dianion

The reversible redox behavior between the stannole dianion and the bistannole-1,2-dianion is demonstrated. Reaction of the stannole dianion with oxygen (1 eq) gives the 1,2-bistannole-1,2-dianion which is a tin-analogue of the cyclopentadienyl anion in 94% yield. Reaction of the stannole dianion with ferrocenium tetrafluoroborate (1 eq) also gives the 1,2-dianion. The 1,2-bistannole-1,2-dianion has a nonaromatic nature as evidenced by X-ray and NMR analysis. Reduction of the 1,2-dianion with lithium gives the starting dianion. Copyright © 2006 American Chemical Society.