Metal ion-driven formation of 2 H -silolides and -germolides.

The synthesis of potassio-1 H -silolides and -germolides substituted with an amidinate-stabilized silylene is reported. Both anions undergo a thermal rearrangement to the 2 H -isomer yielding cyclic sila- and germavinyl anions. The reaction is driven by complex formation with metal ions.