4f−5f Heterotrimetallic Complexes Exhibiting Electrochemical and Magnetic Communication

Novel 4f−5f complexes of U(IV) and Th(IV) with Yb have been prepared using a terpyridyl-functionalized ketimide linking group. These 4f−5f heterotrimetallic complexes (C5Me5)2An[NC(CH2C6H5)(tpyYb(C5Me5)2)]2 (where An = Th, U) exist in Yb(II/III) valence equilibria and exhibit rich electrochemical behavior consistent with electronic coupling between the actinide and Yb(II/III)tpy•- moieties. The magnetic response of the uranium complex, studied qualitatively using a subtraction method, is indicative of a coupled magnetic state between the U(IV) and Yb(III)tpy•- groups at low temperatures. Both the electrochemical and magnetic data are in agreement and are consistent with differences in participation of the actinide valence orbitals in the ketimide bonding.