The bonding differences between that of the lanthanides and the actinides are of fundamental and technological importance and are still of current, outstanding debate.  The similarities between both trivalent f-element series are ascribed to the fact that their valence f-orbitals are primarily nonbonding and these cations can possess nearly identical ionic radii.  It has long been believed that the only changes observed both across each series and between them occur as function of the ionic radius of the metal ions.  We have recently conducted a combined experimental and computational study of the trivalent lanthanide and actinide borate series and have observed, for the first time, a system where not only do the actinides display differences in structures and bonding between that of the lanthanides but also differences between the actinides themselves as will be presented.

Differentiating between trivalent lanthanide and actinide borates

245th National Meeting (2013)

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