Infrared spectrum of the CH3-PtH complex in solid argon prepared in the oxidative C-H insertion of methane by laser-ablated Pt atoms.

Reactions of laser-ablated Pt atoms with CH(4) during condensation in excess argon form CH(3)-PtH through oxidative C-H insertion show and that the late transition-metal atom Pt is an effective methane activation reagent, in agreement with gas phase investigations. Six observed infrared absorptions correlate with the six strongest calculated harmonic frequencies. The computed C-Pt bond length is slightly shorter than those of Pt complexes with large ligands. In addition, the strongest absorption of the CH(2)=PtH(2) methylidene is detected.