Theoretical Insight into B–C Chemical Bonding in Closo-Borate [BnHn−1CH3]2− (n = 6, 10, 12) and Monocarborane [CBnHnCH3]− (n = 5, 9, 11) Anions

A theoretical investigation of mono-methyl derivatives of closo-borate anions of the general form [BnHnCH3]2– (n = 6, 10, 12) and monocarboranes [HCBnHnCH3]− (n = 5, 9, 11) was carried out. An analysis of the main bonding descriptors of exo-polyhedral B–C bonds was performed using the QTAIM (quantum theory of “Atoms in Molecules”), ELF (electron localisation function), NBOs (natural bond orbitals) analyses and several other approaches for the estimation of B–C bond orders (viz. Laplacian bond order (LBO), fuzzy bond order (FBO) and Mayer and Wiberg formalisms). Based on the data obtained on electron density descriptors, it can be concluded that orbital interaction increases with increasing boron cluster size. The present investigation provides a better understanding of exo-polyhedral B–C bond phenomena in boron cluster systems. The data obtained can be used to estimate B–C bond strength, which can be useful for studies devoted to the synthesis and properties of boron cluster systems. © 2022 by the authors.