Through-space ligand interactions in enantiomeric dinuclear Ru complexes

A family of dinuclear Ru complexes of general formula [{Ru(T)(L)}₂(μ-bpp)]⁽ⁿ⁺¹⁾⁺ (T=tridentate meridional ligand; bpp=tetradentate bridging ligand and L=monodentate ligand, n=1 or 2) have been prepared and thoroughly characterized. In solution these complexes display a global dynamic behavior in which the monodentate ligands undergo a synchronized twisting motion.