SCF-SW-Xα Calculations on molybdenum—halogen cluster compounds

The electronic structures of the cluster cations Mo₆ X⁴⁺₈ (X = F, Cl, Br, I) have been calculated using the SCF—SW—Xα method. The eigenvalue spectra obtained are discussed and compared with results of other quantum-chemical studies of such systems. The results of population analysis are used to discuss the charge distribution in the clusters studied. A qualitative discussion of the Mo-Mo and Mo-X bond strengths is also presented. Finally, calculated bond energies are compared with adsorption energies.