ChemistryOpen (Apr 2020)

The Origin of the σ‐Hole in Halogen Atoms: a Valence Bond Perspective

  • Dr. Davide Franchini,
  • Dr. Alessandra Forni,
  • Dr. Alessandro Genoni,
  • Prof. Stefano Pieraccini,
  • Dr. Enrico Gandini,
  • Prof. Maurizio Sironi

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1002/open.202000062
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 9, no. 4
pp. 445 – 450

Abstract

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Abstract A detailed Valence Bond‐Spin Coupled analysis of a series of halogenated molecules is here reported, allowing to get a rigorous ab initio demonstration of the qualitative models previously proposed to explain the origin of halogen bonding. The concepts of σ‐hole and negative belt observed around the halogen atoms in the electrostatic potential maps are here interpreted by analysis of the relevant Spin Coupled orbitals.

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