Abstract β-Triorganosilyl derivatives of silane-and germane-carboxylic acids are reported for the first time. Studies are reported on their spectral properties (IR, UV, PMR), acidity and thermolysis. No evidence has been found in support of extended d-orbital participation,(π→ d→ d) π bonding, in the ground state of the polysilanecarboxylic acids and their conjugate base forms.(d→ d) π bonding may be an important factor in lowering the activation energy ...