Clusters of IIA and IIIA groups metals: synthesis and reactivity

Experimental and theoretical data on the structure of clusters of Group IIA and IIIA metals are summarised. General trends in the properties of the clusters as a function of nuclearity are outlined, and special points on the dependences, corresponding to the so-called magic numbers, are identified. Data on the reactivity of clusters in the gas phase are used to establish the anomalies corresponding to these points. It is shown that the reactivity of mixed clusters obeys more complex relationships, determined by their electronic structure and geometry. A new type of organomagnesium cluster is described, and shown to be promising as a component of catalytic systems. The cryochemical synthesis of giant clusters of transition metals, which offer a high reactivity and catalytic activity is described. The bibliography includes 176 references.