Bidentate Ligands Capable of Variable Bond Angles in the Self-Assembly of Discrete Supramolecules

Flexible donor ligands like 1,2-bis(3-pyridyl)ethyne or 1,4-bis(3-pyridyl)-1,3-butadiyne self-assemble into discrete supramolecules instead of infinite networks upon combination with organoplatinum 90, 120, and 180 degree acceptor units. These systems are unique examples of versatile pyridine donors adjusting their bonding directionality to accommodate rigid platinum acceptors in the formation of closed macrocycles.