Diborane(2)

Diborane(2)
Names
IUPAC name
Diborene
Identifiers
3D model (JSmol)
ChemSpider
  • InChI=1S/B2H2/c1-2/h1-2H
    Key: HWGHUECIBSMKRW-UHFFFAOYSA-N
  • B=B
Properties
B2H2
Molar mass 23.64 g·mol−1
Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa).
Infobox references

Diborane(2), also known as diborene, is an inorganic compound with the formula B2H2. The number 2 in diborane(2) indicates the number of hydrogen atoms bonded to the boron complex. There are other forms of diborane with different numbers of hydrogen atoms, including diborane(4) and diborane(6).

Diborane(2) is a highly reactive molecule that rapidly decomposes, making it a challenge to study experimentally under ambient conditions. To observe diborane(2) experimentally, high-vacuum and low temperature conditions using matrix isolation techniques are required, such as trapping the molecule in inert matrices like neon or argon. As a result of these difficult synthesis conditions, its properties and behaviour have been predominantly studied using theoretical models and computational simulations.

Diborene also refers to a series of molecules with the formula R:(BH)=(BH):R or R-B=B-R where R is an organic group. Diborene derivatives are relatively stable and can be stored at room temperature under inert conditions. They have been synthesized and characterized experimentally, and have shown potential in a variety of applications.