Synthesis and Structure of the Cluster [NaAu₁₂Se₈]³⁻: An Inorganic Cryptand Complex

A cube with twelve linearly coordinated gold atoms in the middle of the edges and eight trigonally coordinated selenium atoms at the corners is found in the structure of the title compound 1 (see right). A sodium ion is encapsulated in the center of the cube and interacts with the gold atoms. The (Et₄N) ₃ salt of this inorganic cryptand complex is formed in the reaction of AuCN and Na₂Se in the presence of Et₄NCl. (Figure Presented.)