Abstract
A complex host-guest equilibrium employing metal ions incorporated into both the host and guest is discussed. M(II)X(4)(2-) metallate guests are shown to provide a good size and shape match for encapsulation within the M(4)L(6) tetrahedral capsules, facilitating the generation of previously unreported Zn(4)L(6) complexes. Displacement of the initial, primary template anion (ZnBr(4)(2-)) by a secondary template anion (ClO(4)(-)) is shown to result in the formation of a pentagonal-prismatic Zn(10)L(15) structure that incorporates both Br(-) and ClO(4)(-). Furthermore, the formation of heterometallic complexes provides direct evidence for metal exchange between the guest and host complex.