Octahedral Gyroscope-Like Molecules with M(CO)3(X) Rotators Encased in Three-Spoked Diphosphine Stators:  Syntheses by Alkene Metathesis/Hydrogenation Sequences, Structures, Dynamic Properties, and Reactivities

Threefold ring-closing metatheses of mer,trans-Re(CO)3(X)(P((CH2)6CHCH2)3)2 (X = Cl, Br), followed by hydrogenations, yield the gyroscope-like species which react with NaI or Ph2Zn to give substitution products; crystal structures have been determined, and low-temperature NMR data indicate rapid rotation of the Re(CO)3(X) moieties.