Anion Photoelectron Spectroscopy and Quantum Chemistry Calculations of Gas-Phase TaSi 17 ̅ and TaSi 18 ̅ Clusters: Structural Determination, Bonding Characteristics, and Multiplicity of Structural Forms.

This study explores the structures and chemical bonding properties of TaSi 17 ̅ and TaSi 18 ̅ clusters by employing anion photoelectron spectroscopy and theoretical computations. Utilizing CALYPSO and ABCluster programs for initial structure prediction, B3LYP hybrid functional for optimization, and CCSD(T)/def2-TZVPPD level for energy calculations, the research identifies the most stable isomers of these clusters. Key findings include the identification of two coexisting low-energy isomers for TaSi 17 ̅, exhibiting Ta-endohedral fullerene-like cage structures, and the lowest-energy structures of TaSi 17 ̅ and TaSi 18 ̅ anions can be considered as derived from the TaSi 16 ̅ superatom cluster. The study enhances the understanding of group 14 element chemistry and guides the design of novel inorganic metallic compounds, potentially impacting materials science.