The Hydrophobic Effect Drives the Recognition of Hydrocarbons by an Anionic Metal−Ligand Cluster

We report the complexation of a series of n- and cycloalkanes by an anionic, metal−ligand cluster carrying a 12^- charge. This host also encapsulates cyclodecane isomers such as adamantane, the dicyclopentadienes, and the decalins. The relative binding affinities of these guests for the [Ga₄L₆]^12- cluster are reported and attributed to the hydrophobic effect.