Abstract Inversion-symmetric pairs, each with two weak P–H⋅⋅⋅ P interactions, form molecules of Si (PH 2) 4 in the crystal (see drawing). The title compounds are formed from ECl 4 (E= Si, Ge) on reaction with [LiAl (PH 2) 4] and could serve as single-source CVD precursors for phosphides.
