007 - Rhenium Atoms Bonding

from Google AI:

Two rhenium atoms can bond to form a dirhenium molecule (Re₂). This bond is often a quadruple bond, with four shared pairs of electrons between the atoms, a type of metal-metal bond that is important for understanding the properties of transition metals. Scientists have successfully captured the first-ever video of this Re₂ molecule bonding, breaking apart, and reforming its bond using a high-resolution electron microscope. 

Key Aspects of the Re₂ Bond:

• Molecule Name: 

  The bonded pair is called dirhenium (Re₂). 
• Bond Type: 

  The bond between the two rhenium atoms is a quadruple bond, which is a strong type of covalent bond. 
• Bond Dynamics: 

  The bond can weaken, stretch, and even break and reform, a process that scientists have been able to observe and record. 
• Bond Order: 

  The strength of the bond, or its order, can change depending on the surrounding environment. 
• Significance: 

  Understanding these bonds provides fundamental insights into the chemical, magnetic, and electronic properties of rhenium and other transition metals.