The dipole moments and molar Kerr constants of beryllium complexes of certain Schiff bases

Abstract

Five bis(N-alkylsalicylaldiminato)beryllium complexes have been examined as solutes in benzene. When the alkyl groups are Me, Et, Prⁿ, and Buⁿ the moments and molar Kerr constants are between 4.86 and 4.92 D and -1440x10^-12 and -1705x10^-12 respectively. With the Bu^t derivative the polarity is lower (4.20 D) and the _mK less negative (-1260x10^-12). Such data are reconcilable with tetrahedral coordination around the Be atom in the Me, Et, Prⁿ, and Buⁿ cases, and with a slightly twisted configuration when the molecule contains the more bulky Me₃C groups.