s-Block Organometallics: Analysis of Ion-Association and Noncovalent Interactions on Structure and Function in Benzyl-Based Compounds

The organometallic chemistry of alkali and alkaline-earth metals has been marred by synthetic setbacks because of their high reactivity. Advances in their synthesis and a better understanding of the stabilization effects of ligands and coligands have resulted in the revolution of s-block organometallics. Among those, benzyl-based derivatives have played a key role in developing this chemistry because factors such as the ligand size, charge delocalization, and introduction of electronic parameters along with metal effects can be analyzed. This article will focus on s-block benzylates and di- and triphenylmethanide derivatives with specific emphasis on the factors that stabilize the highly reactive metal species.