Reversible C-C bond formation: solid state structure of the aldol-like addition product of adamantanone to a 1,5-diazapentadienyllithium, and its solution state retro-aldol dissociation.

Analysis of crystals of the lithium complex of the tripodal ligand formed upon addition of adamantanone to a 1,5 diazapentadienyllithium complex reveals a long C-C bond which ruptures upon dissolution in non-co-ordinating solvents.