ESCA investigations of Group IV derivatives. Part III. Binding energies for methyl substituted disilyl and digermyl chalcogenide series

Core-level binding energies of all atoms are reported for the methyl substituted disilyl and digermyl chalcogenides, (Me n MH 3−n ) 2 E; where M = Si, Ge; E = O, S, Se, Te; n = 0, 1, 2, 3. Binding energies are also reported for the dimethyl series Me 2 E; where E = O, S, Se, Te; for the hydrides H 2 E; where E = O, S, Se; and for the methylhydrides MeEH; where E = O, S. Binding energy trends throughout these closely related series of compounds are discussed. The similarity of atomic charge patterns, deduced from the binding energies, for all molecules of a given silicon or germanium series are consistent with their ability to redistribute charge. The bonding mechanisms that make this possible are assessed.