Tetraborane, also known as boron hydride or boron tetrahydride, is a chemical compound with the formula B4H10. It is a member of the boranes family and consists of four boron (B) atoms and ten hydrogen (H) atoms. Tetraborane exists as a colorless gas under standard conditions.

Here are some key points about tetraborane:

1. Structure: Tetraborane has a cluster structure, with four boron atoms arranged in a tetrahedron and ten hydrogen atoms bonded to the boron atoms.
2. Synthesis: Tetraborane is typically prepared through the reaction of boron trichloride (BCl3) with lithium aluminum hydride (LiAlH4) or other reducing agents.
3. Highly Reactive: Tetraborane is highly reactive and pyrophoric, meaning it can ignite spontaneously upon exposure to air.
4. Chemical Reactions: Tetraborane can undergo various chemical reactions, including reactions with other boranes and with organic compounds. It is used as a reagent in some organic synthesis reactions.
5. Hydroboration: Tetraborane is involved in hydroboration reactions, where it adds boron-hydrogen bonds across carbon-carbon double or triple bonds.
6. Safety Concerns: Due to its pyrophoric nature and reactivity, tetraborane requires careful handling and storage under an inert atmosphere.

Tetraborane is used mainly in research laboratories and in specialized chemical processes due to its reactivity and safety hazards. As with all boranes, proper safety precautions, such as handling in a controlled environment and using appropriate safety equipment, are essential when working with tetraborane.