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Chemistry · Glossary

What is Template synthesis?

Definition 25.19 University Chemistry — Year 3 · Chapter 25 — Supramolecular Chemistry

A template synthesis uses a temporary interaction, often with a metal ion, to hold reactive components in the geometry needed for a reaction that would otherwise be improbable, such as the closure of a ring around another ring.

Template synthesis of a catenane (schematic): a copper(I) ion holds two phenanthroline-based ligands crossed at right angles in its tetrahedral coordination; closing each into a ring gives two interlocked rings around the metal, and removing the copper leaves the free catenane. Right: a rotaxane, a ring trapped on an axle by two stoppers.
Template synthesis of a catenane (schematic): a copper(I) ion holds two phenanthroline-based ligands crossed at right angles in its tetrahedral coordination; closing each into a ring gives two interlocked rings around the metal, and removing the copper leaves the free catenane. Right: a rotaxane, a ring trapped on an axle by two stoppers.
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