Synopsis: 1. Quantum mechanics predicts that the target molecule can accommodate an electron inside (electron-in-a-cube). 2. A sample of the target molecule w

Synopsis: 1. Quantum mechanics predicts that the target molecule can accommodate an electron inside (electron-in-a-cube). 2. A sample of the target molecule was prepared, and yes, it involved elemental fluorine, a very difficult substance to handle safely and one notorious for nonproductively chewing up just about everything you give it. 3. Analytical results were consistent with the structure. 4. The substance's electrochemistry at low temperatures was consistent with the uptake of an electron at the predicted potential. Fine structure of results are consistent with the electron-in-a-cube idea. At room temperature, the results indicate decomposition. 5. Bonus: the electrochemical results suggest the electron-in-a-cube assembly is rotating unexpectedly. This is a really good example of basic science in action. Observation (some molecules envelop other molecules), generalization (maybe a molecule could envelop an electron), hypothesis (calculations suggest this envelope in particular would work, and would yield these specific observations), experiment (figure out how to make the thing, make it, then measure the predicted properties), update hypothesis (in this case, the electron-in-a-cube is rotating unexpectedly). It's also a good example of why it's a good idea to do experiments you think will "work". Sometimes they don't work and your hypothesis does in fact suck. Sometimes they work exactly as you expect and you can add that to the pile of evidence you already have in support of the hypothesis. And sometimes you get a surprise.