The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
In a 2006 coordination-chemistry study, a bis-bidentate bridging ligand assembled with metal salts into two strikingly different structures: a closed molecular cube and an open-book-like framework. The result shows that related building-block choices can produce different architectures; it does not establish why one structure forms rather than the other.
What the study found
Stephen P. Argent, Harry Adams, Lindsay P. Harding, and Michael D. Ward reported the work in a short communication in Dalton Transactions. They reacted the bridging ligand L1 with either cobalt(II) perchlorate, Co(ClO4)2, or zinc(II) tetrafluoroborate, Zn(BF4)2. The reported products were [M8(L1)12]X16 and [M6(L1)9]X12; the abstract describes them as having the same metal-to-ligand ratio. The Royal Society of Chemistry’s paper record gives the structural result.
“Same components” is a useful shorthand for the shared ligand class and the metal-salt choices, not a claim that the complete products have identical formulas. One reported complex contains eight metal ions and twelve ligand units; the other contains six metal ions and nine ligand units.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
How the two architectures differ
| Architecture | Reported formula | Metal–ligand framework |
|---|---|---|
| Molecular cube | [M8(L1)12]X16 | Eight metal ions occupy the vertices, with bridging ligands spanning the cube’s edges. |
| Open-book-like structure | [M6(L1)9]X12 | An open metal framework contains cross-linked double-helical metal–ligand subunits. |
The contrast is primarily one of topology: a closed, cage-like cube versus a more open framework. The formulas and structural descriptions are reported in the RSC abstract.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
What “self-assembly” means here
A bis-bidentate bridging ligand can coordinate at two sites and connect metal centers. As metal ions and ligands associate, those connections can build a larger structure. In this paper, “self-assembly” describes the formation of the reported metal–ligand architectures from their components; it does not, by itself, explain the step-by-step pathway or establish what determines the final structure.
The abstract does not identify a mechanism that selects the cube in one case and the open-book framework in the other. It would therefore be inaccurate to infer a specific thermodynamic or kinetic explanation from the structural outcome alone.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Why the result drew attention—and what it does not prove
A contemporaneous Chemistry World report by Alison Stoddart, published on 9 January 2006, presented control of molecular self-assembly and computational prediction as broader prospective challenges. Those were forward-looking implications, not demonstrations that these particular complexes had a practical application or that their structures could already be predicted reliably.
The report attributed to Ward the remark: “There is ’an almost magical fascination in seeing these structures appear without any major effort,” and noted his surprise at the complexity of the structures. The paper establishes the reported architectures, but the abstract does not supply comparative results for stability, yield, guest binding, or practical performance.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Paper details
The communication, “A closed molecular cube and an open book: two different products from assembly of the same metal salt and bridging ligand,” appeared in Dalton Transactions, 2006, issue 4, pages 542–544. The Royal Society of Chemistry record lists its first online publication as 28 November 2005; PubMed indexes the issue on 28 January 2006. The paper’s DOI is 10.1039/B515296H. See the RSC record and PubMed bibliographic entry.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
