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 2016, researchers reported an unusual hydrogen bond between a boron–hydrogen (B–H) bond and the π-electron system of an aromatic ring. The interaction, observed in a carborane-based iridium complex, was detected in both a crystal and solution at room temperature. It is a fundamental chemistry finding—not a new product or an established medical treatment.
What makes this hydrogen bond unusual?
Hydrogen bonds are often introduced as interactions in which hydrogen attached to an electronegative atom is attracted to another atom or electron-rich region. Non-classical hydrogen bonds can instead involve less typical donors or acceptors. The 2016 report described a B–H bond interacting with an aromatic ring’s π-electron system, written B–H···π.
Many familiar X–H···π interactions involve X = carbon, nitrogen, or oxygen. In the studied boron-containing compounds, the researchers proposed that unusual three-center, two-electron bonding in diborane and carborane could leave the B–H hydrogen with slight positive character, enabling attraction to the aromatic π system. Their calculations characterized the interaction in these systems as electrostatic; that interpretation should not be generalized to every B–H compound. Nanjing University’s 2016 summary describes the proposed explanation.
How was the interaction identified?
The experimental model
The team studied a carborane-based, half-sandwich iridium complex coordinated with an aryl phosphine ligand. This is a specific organometallic model, not evidence that the same interaction occurs with identical geometry or strength in all boron-containing molecules.
#1 Best Overall
- FOR BASIC TEACHING TO ADVANCED SCIENCE: 444 pieces molecular model kit, including 136 atoms, 158 bonds and 150 parts for Carbon-60(Fullerene), provides to students from Grade 7 to Graduate level.
- TWO CHEMICAL STRUCTURE MODELS: The ball-and-stick models use spheres to represent atoms and sticks to represent chemical bonds. In the space-filling model, the spheres are drawn to scale and are next to one another as atoms are in real molecules.
- CHEMISTRY EDUCATIONAL MOLECULE MODEL IN 3D: It can display chemical structure, molecular bond, and bond angle in all directions. Demonstrate fundamental molecular geometry, chemical molecular structure, stereochemistry with 3D modeling studies.
- EASY TO LEARN: The universal standard adopted for each atom's color makes it easier for you to use and learn. Atoms and chemical bonds combine tightly and firmly and can be easily disassembled by disconnecting tools.
- If you’re not in love with it for whatever reason, we’ll give you a full replacement or refund—no questions asked. If you have any doubt, please tell us. With nothing to worry about, or even to share with your friends, try it now.
Evidence in the crystal and in solution
- Single-crystal X-ray diffraction: used to determine the interaction’s bond length and angle in the solid-state complex.
- NMR spectroscopy: supported the interaction in solution. The university summary reports a high-field shift of more than 1.5 ppm in the B–H hydrogen’s chemical shift and a significant effect on the boron nucleus.
- Quantum-chemical calculations: used to analyze the bonding and support the researchers’ electrostatic interpretation.
The combination matters: crystallography supplied structural evidence in a crystal, while NMR supported the interaction in solution. The findings were reported at room temperature. Nanjing University’s account summarizes these methods and observations.
What numbers did the reports give?
| Reported quantity | Value and context |
|---|---|
| Hydrogen-to-π-system distance | 2.40–2.76 Å in the iridium complex, as reported by Chemistry World in 2016. |
| B–H hydrogen NMR shift | More than 1.5 ppm high-field shift associated with the interaction in solution, according to Nanjing University’s 2016 summary. |
| Relative interaction strength | About 0.35 bond order, described by the university as roughly comparable in strength to the hydrogen bond within a water dimer; this is the reported characterization for the studied system, not a general value for B–H···π interactions. Nanjing University’s summary. |
These are system-specific results, not measurements of a broad class of compounds.
Rank #2
- ADVANCED LEARNING SCIENCE EDUCATION KIT --- Perfect chemistry model kit for modeling simple and small to more advanced and complex chemical structures for schools and college level, students of all ages, researchers and enthusiasts. Fun and interactive early learning molecular set for kids of all years and for use in the classroom.
- HIGH QUALITY --- Made from high quality durable materials designed for easy construction and perfect fit. These Molecular Model Kit pieces are color coded to national standards for easy ID. Organic Chemistry Model Kit includes box for easy storage and transport with your other textbooks, notes, and books. Excellent for the classroom.
- POWERFUL FUNCTIONS --- This Molecular Model Kit has a total of 136 pieces including short link remover tool. Super easy to build models for organic and inorganic chemistry, This model contains C, H, O, N, S and a variety of single and double bonds, Can be put high school, university chemistry in most of the organic or inorganic molecular structure model for the study of experimental operation.
- QUICK AND EASY ASSEMBLY OF COMPLEX STRUCTURES --- Atoms and bonds that are perfectly suited to being connected and disconnected easily without making your fingers hurt. We've also included a link remover to make the task of easy.
- CONVENIENT STORAGE --- The pieces come in a slim plastic box for convenient storage. See the pictures on this listing for a full understanding of what's inside
Why does the discovery matter—and what does it not show?
The result adds a B–H donor to the range of reported non-classical hydrogen-bond interactions and gives researchers a case to consider in boron-containing supramolecular chemistry. Nanjing University described the work as theoretical guidance for designing boron-containing molecules with biological affinity. That is a prospective research implication: the reports do not establish a resulting drug, clinical benefit, or commercial product.
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minutePC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Scott Cockroft, identified by Chemistry World as a University of Edinburgh researcher, said: “This work by Yan, Cremer and co-workers adds another example to the growing menagerie of non-classical hydrogen bonds that involve atypical H-bond donors and acceptors.” Chemistry World, March 9, 2016.
Rank #3
- Visualize Molecular: The molecular model kit simplifies complex chemistry concepts into tangible 3D structures improve learning efficiency, suitable for students from Grade 7 to Graduate level.
- 444 Pcs Complete Set: The atom model kit includes with 136 atoms,158 bonds, and 150 fullerene model parts, explore most the molecules structures from simple compounds to complex polymers.
- Effortless Assembly: Embedded component design ensures easy to construct Ball-and-stick and Space-filling models that maximizes focus on exploration without complex assembly.
- Durable & Portable: Built to last, the chemistry set is crafted from high-quality materials. Plus, its portable Snap-Lock design allows you to take your experiments learning anywhere, between the home, classroom and lab.
- Essential Study Tool: Whether you're studying organic chemistry, biochemistry, or molecular biology, molecule building kit is an perfect learning tool for you deeper comprehension of molecular science.
Who carried out the work?
Nanjing University identifies Xiaolei Zhang and Huimin Dai as having completed the experimental work. Dieter Cremer’s group at Southern Methodist University carried out the theoretical work. The paper, “B−H···π Interaction: A New Type of Nonclassical Hydrogen Bonding,” appeared in the Journal of the American Chemical Society in 2016 (DOI: 10.1021/jacs.6b01249), as cited in the university summary.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Visualize Molecular: The molecular model kit simplifies complex chemistry concepts into tangible 3D structures improve learning efficiency, suitable for students from Grade 7 to Graduate level.
- 240 Pcs Complete Set: The atom model kit includes with 86 atoms and 154 bonds, explore most the molecules structures from simple compounds to complex polymers.
- Effortless Assembly: Embedded component design ensures easy to construct Ball-and-stick and Space-filling models that maximizes focus on exploration without complex assembly.
- Durable & Portable: Built to last, the chemistry set is crafted from high-quality materials. Plus, its portable design allows you to take your experiments learning anywhere, between the home, classroom and lab.
- Essential Study Tool: Whether you're studying organic chemistry, biochemistry, or molecular biology, molecule building kit is an perfect learning tool for you deeper comprehension of molecular science.
Rank #4
- UNLOCK YOUR CHEMISTRY POTENTIAL: Our comprehensive molecular model kit includes 238 pieces, featuring 84 atoms, 153 bonds and a remover tool. Suitable for chemistry learners from beginners to advanced levels. Manufacturer recommended age: 15 years and up
- ORGANIZED STORAGE AND EASY LOCATING: Experience hassle-free organization with our storage box, complete with divided compartments and labeled sections. Say goodbye to clutter and quickly find the components you need
- EXTRA LEARNING MATERIALS FOR EXCELLENCE: Enhance your studies with our bonus 6-page learning guide and stencils. From grade 9 to college, from organic to inorganic, finish and master your assignments faster and create numerous molecular structures with ease
- IMMERSIVE 3D VISUAL LEARNING: Explore chemistry in a captivating way with our 3D visual learning approach. The universal color-coded Atomic Balls provide a better understanding of molecular structure, boosting your chemistry knowledge. It's also a perfect gift for someone who are going to learn those complex molecule
- EASY-TO-USE DESIGN: Crafted from smooth, burr-free plastic, our molecular science kit ensures easy assembly. With the included remover tool, disassembling is a breeze
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.
