Reaction of [PPN][Re(CO)5] with [Mn(CO)5(C2H4)][BF4], a rapid two-electron, ethylene transfer reaction, PPN=bis(triphenylphosphine)nitrogen(1+)

Reaction of Re(CO)5− with Mn(CO)5(C2H4)+ produces initially, among other products, Re(CO)5(C2H4)+ and Mn(CO)5−. The ethylene transfer accompanied by a two-electron process provides another example of rapid two-electron reactions, more rapid than single electron transfer. The ultimate products are bimetallic from single electron reactions.