Characterization of the Isolated Y@C82

We report here the first isolation and characterization of Y C[sub 82] in comparison with La C[sub 82]. The electronic structure of the major Y C[sub 82] isomer, examined by the electronic absorption spectra and the electrochemistry, is almost identical to that of the major La C[sub 82] isomer, although the ionization potentials and ionic radii of the metals are different. This indicates that Y C[sub 82]-A would have a cage structure and an oxidation state of the metal similar to those of La Cr[sub 82]-A. 15 refs., 3 figs., 1 tab.