Question

Wilkinson's catalyst: why this structure?

Answer 1

This is accomplished using a catalyst calledWilkinson's catalyst. Wilkinson's catalyst has the formula RhCl(PPh3)3. The IUPAC name (the scientific name that also describes itsstructure) is chlorotris(triphenylphosphone)rhodium(I). This name tells us that the rhodium is in an oxidation state of +1.

Answer 2

Wilkinson's catalyst, is the common name for chloridotrisrhodium(I), a coordination complex of rhodium with the formula RhCl(PPh₃)₃. It is a red-brown colored solid that is soluble in hydrocarbon solvents such as benzene, and more so in tetrahydrofuran or chlorinated solvents such as dichloromethane.