Synthesis, structure, and dynamic properties of [Ni2Sn17]4-.

The ligand-free [Ni2Sn17]4- ion comprises two [Ni@Sn9]2- clusters that share a common vertex. The cluster sequentially loses Sn atoms in the gas phase and shows global exchange of all Sn atoms on the NMR time scale in solution at 60 degrees C. At lower temperatures, the fluxionality is localized to the ends of the cluster and does not involve the central 8-coordinate Sn5 atom.