Sigma hole interactions

In chemistry, sigma hole interactions (or σ-hole interactions) are a family of intermolecular forces that can occur between several classes of molecules and arise from an energetically stabilizing interaction between a positively-charged site, termed a sigma hole, and a negatively-charged site, typically a lone pair, on different atoms that are not covalently bonded to each other.[1] These interactions are usually rationalized primarily via dispersion, electrostatics, and electron delocalization (similar to Lewis-acid/base coordination) and are characterized by a strong directional preference that allows control over supramolecular chemistry.

  1. ^ Politzer, Peter; Murray, Jane S.; Clark, Timothy (2013-06-18). "Halogen bonding and other σ-hole interactions: a perspective". Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics. 15 (27): 11178–11189. Bibcode:2013PCCP...1511178P. doi:10.1039/C3CP00054K. ISSN 1463-9084. PMID 23450152.