A translationally active ligand based on a [2]rotaxane molecular shuttle with a 2,2′-bipyridyl core

Abstract

A [2]rotaxane molecular shuttle with a central bipy unit can coordinate to Pt(ii) or Zn(ii), but only the octahedral geometry facilitated by the Zn(ii) centre can mediate translational motion of the interlocked crown ether along the axle.