Inversed stability order in Keggin polyoxothiometalate isomers: a DFT study of 12-electron reduced alpha, beta, gamma, delta, and epsilon [(MoO4)Mo12O12S12(OH)12]2- anions

Density functional theory calculations have been carried out to investigate 12-electron reduced alpha, beta, gamma, delta, and epsilon Keggin-like [(MoO4)Mo12O12S12(OH)12]2- polyoxothiometalates (POTMs), which show that the stability order is alpha < beta < gamma < delta < epsilon that is perfectly inverse to the well-known trend of the classical Keggin polyoxometalates. Energy decomposition analysis reveals that the enhanced stabilities of gamma, delta, and epsilon isomers originate the favorable arrangements of their Mo12O12S12(OH)12 shell, in which the edge-sharing [MoV2(mu-S)2O2] fragment plays a fundamental role in stabilizing the overall structure. Both frontier orbital analysis and Mayer indexes exhibit that a Mo-Mo single bond is formed inside the [MoV2(mu-S)2O2] fragment, which leads to the localization of the two reduced electrons. As compared with experimentally discovered cyclic [(C9H3O6)@Mo12O12S12(OH)12]3-, all Keggin POTM structures are less stable due to their disfavored cage framework and the disadvantageous host-guest interaction. However, the epsilon-type Keggin POTM that has the largest similarity to the cyclic species is possibly available in the presence of appropriate templates.     

Sandwich-type phosphotungstates: structure,electrochemistry, and magnetism of the trinickel-substituted polyoxoanion [Ni(3)Na(H(2)O)(2)(PW(9)O(34))(2)](11-)

The novel nickel-substituted, dimeric phosphotungstate [Ni(3)Na(H(2)O)(2)(PW(9)O(34))(2)](11-) (1) has been synthesized and characterized by IR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and electrochemistry. X-ray single-crystal analysis was carried out on Na(11)[Ni(3)Na(H(2)O)(2)(PW(9)O(34))(2)].21.25H(2)O, which crystallizes in the triclinic system, space group P1, with a = 12.2467(6) A, b = 16.6031(7) A, c = 22.4017(12) A, alpha = 73.9870(10) degrees, beta = 87.6060(10) degrees, gamma = 79.344(2) degrees, and Z = 2. The polyanion consists of two lacunary B-alpha-[PW(9)O(34)](9-) Keggin moieties linked via three nickel(II) centers and a sodium ion. The structure of 1 is composed of two fused Keggin fragments that represent different Baker-Figgis isomers (alpha- vs beta-type). Electrochemical studies show that 1 exhibits a stable and reproducible voltammetric pattern, with a first wave featuring a chemically reversible four-electron/four-proton process. An investigation of the magnetic properties indicates that the three nickel centers exhibit ferromagnetic exchange interaction.     

Experimental and theoretical investigations of the sulfite-based polyoxometalate cluster redox series: alpha- and beta-[Mo(18)O(54)(SO(3))(2)](4-/5-/6-)

The synthesis, isolation and structural characterization of the sulfite polyoxomolybdate clusters alpha-(D(3h))(C(20)H(44)N)(4){alpha-[Mo(18)O(54)(SO(3))(2)]}CH(3)CN and beta-(D(3d))(C(20)H(44)N)(4){beta-[Mo(18)O(54)(SO(3))(2)]}CH(3)CN is presented. Voltammetric studies in acetonitrile (0.1 M Hx(4)NClO(4), Hx(4)N=tetra-n-hexylammonium) reveal the presence of an extensive series of six one-electron reduction processes for both isomers. Under conditions of bulk electrolysis, the initial [Mo(18)O(54)(SO(3))(2)](4-/5-) and [Mo(18)O(54)(SO(3))(2)](5-/6-) processes produce stable [Mo(18)O(54)(SO(3))(2)](5-) and [Mo(18)O(54)(SO(3))(2)](6-) species, respectively, and the same reduced species may be produced by photochemical reduction. Spectroelectrochemical data imply that retention of structural form results upon reduction, so that both alpha and beta isomers are available at each of the 4-, 5-, and 6-redox levels. However, the alpha isomer is the thermodynamically favored species in both the one- and two-electron-reduced states, with beta-->alpha isomerization being detected in both cases on long time scales (days). EPR spectra also imply that increasing localization of the unpaired electron occurs over the alpha- and beta-[Mo(18)O(54)(SO(3))(2)](5-) frameworks as the temperature approaches 2 K where the EPR spectra show orthorhombic symmetry with different g and hyperfine values for the alpha and beta isomers. Theoretical studies support the observation that it is easier to reduce the alpha cluster than the beta form and also provide insight into the driving force for beta-->alpha isomerization in the reduced state. Data are compared with that obtained for the well studied alpha-[Mo(18)O(54)(SO(4))(2))](4-) sulfate cluster.     

Voltammetric Reduction of alpha- and gamma-[S2W18O62]4- and alpha-, beta-, and gamma-[SiW12O40]4-: isomeric dependence of reversible potentials of polyoxometalate anions using data obtained by novel dissolution and conventional solution-phase processes

Comparative studies on the voltammetric reduction of the alpha and gamma isomers of Dawson [S(2)W(18)O(62)](4)(-) and alpha, beta, and gamma forms of Keggin [SiW(12)O(40)](4)(-) polyoxometalate anions have been undertaken. For the six reversible one-electron [S(2)W(18)O(62)](4)(-)(/5)(-)(/6)(-)(/7)(-)(/8)(-)(/9)(-)(/10)(-) processes in acetonitrile, reversible potentials (E(0)(')) were found to be independent of isomeric form within experimental error (+/-5 mV). However, because both the alpha and gamma* isomers of [Bu(4)N](4)[S(2)W(18)O(62)] are insoluble in water, solid-state voltammetric studies with microcrystals adhered to electrode surfaces in contact with aqueous Et(4)NCl and Bu(4)NCl electrolyte media were also possible. Although no isomeric distinction was again detected in the solid-state studies, it was found that reduction of adhered solid by four or more electron equivalents led to rapid dissolution. When Et(4)NCl was the electrolyte, this dissolution process coupled with potential cycling experiments enabled conventional solution-phase data to be obtained in water for the analogous six one-electron reduction steps previously detected in acetonitrile. A strong medium effect attributed to Lewis acidity effects was apparent upon comparison with E(0)(') data obtained in water and acetonitrile. In contrast, with the [SiW(12)O(40)](4)(-) system, E(0)(') values for the [SiW(12)O(40)](4)(-)(/5)(-)(/6)(-)(/7)(-) processes in acetonitrile exhibited a larger (about 70 mV) dependence on isomeric form, and the isomerization step, [gamma-SiW(12)O(40)](6)(-)--> [alpha-SiW(12)O(40)](6)(-), was detected on the voltammetric time scale. The influence of isomeric form on reversible potential data is considered in terms of structural and charge density differences exhibited in the [S(2)W(18)O(62)](4)(-) and [SiW(12)O(40)](4)(-) systems studied in this paper and published data available on the alpha, beta, gamma, and gamma isomers of [As(2)W(18)O(62)](6)(-) and [P(2)W(18)O(62)](6)(-) Dawson anions and Keggin systems.     

Multi-iron tungstodiarsenates. Synthesis,characterization, and electrocatalytic studies of alphabetabetaalpha-(Fe(III)OH(2))(2)Fe(III)(2)(As(2)W(15)O(56))(2)(12)(-)

Reaction of the trivacant lacunary complex, alpha-Na(12)[As(2)W(15)O(56)], with an aqueous solution of Fe(NO(3))(3).9H(2)O yields the sandwich-type polyoxometalate, alphabetabetaalpha-Na(12)(Fe(III)OH(2))(2)Fe(III)(2)(As(2)W(15)O(56))(2) (Na1). The structure of this complex, determined by single-crystal X-ray crystallography (a = 13.434(1) A, b = 13.763(1) A, c = 22.999(2) A, alpha = 90.246(2) degrees, beta = 102.887(2) degrees, gamma = 116.972(1) degrees, triclinic, Ponemacr;, R1 = 5.5%, based on 25342 independent reflections), consists of an Fe(III)(4) unit sandwiched between two trivacant alpha-As(2)W(15)O(56)(12)(-) moieties. UV-vis, infrared, cyclic voltammetry, and elemental analysis data are all consistent with the structure determined from X-ray analysis. Magnetization studies confirm that the four Fe(III) centers are antiferromagnetically coupled. A cyclic voltammogram of Na1 reveals that a three-wave W(VI) system replaces the two-wave W(VI) system found in the precursor alpha-As(2)W(15)O(56)(12)(-) complex. The observed modifications in the CV patterns of Na1 and alpha-As(2)W(15)O(56)(12)(-) are most likely due to subsequent changes in the acid-base properties of two reduced POMs that occur as a result of Fe(III) incorporation. Na1 is shown to be more efficient than the monosubstituted complex alpha(2)-As(2)(Fe(III)OH(2))W(17)O(61)(7)(-) in the electrocatalytic reduction of dioxygen. This is attributed to cooperativity effects among the adjacent Fe(III) centers in Na1.     

Modeling the Formation of Molybdenum Oxides from Alkoxides: Crystal Structures of [Mo(4)O(4)Cl(4)(&mgr;(2)-OEt)(4)(HOEt)(2)(&mgr;(3)-O)(2)] and [PPN](+)[Et(3)NH](+)[Cl(2)(O)Mo(&mgr;(2)-O)(2)Mo(O)Cl(2)](2)(-)

The reactions of the binuclear oxomolybdenum(V) complex [Cl(2)(O)Mo(&mgr;-OEt)(2)(&mgr;-HOEt)Mo(O)Cl(2)] (1) with Me(3)Si(allyl) and SbF(3) produce the compounds [Mo(6)O(6)Cl(6)(&mgr;(3)-O)(2)(&mgr;(2)-OEt)(6)(&mgr;(2)-Cl)(2)] (2) and [Mo(8)O(8)Cl(6)(&mgr;(3)-O)(4)(OH)(2)(&mgr;(2)-OH)(4)(&mgr;(2)-OEt)(4)(HOEt)(4)] (3), respectively. Treatment of 1 with the Lewis base PMe(3) affords the tetrameric complex [Mo(4)O(4)Cl(4)(&mgr;(2)-OEt)(4)(HOEt)(2)(&mgr;(3)-O)(2)] (4), which represents another link in the chain of clusters produced by the reactions of 1 and simulating the build-up of polymeric molybdenum oxides by sol-gel methods. The crystal structure of 4 has been determined [C(12)H(32)Cl(4)Mo(4)O(12), triclinic, P&onemacr;, a = 7.376(2) ?, b = 8.807(3) ?, c = 11.467(4) ?, alpha = 109.61(1) degrees, beta = 92.12(3) degrees, gamma = 103.75(2) degrees, Z = 1]. By contrast, reaction of 1 with the nitrogen base NEt(3), followed by treatment with [PPN]Cl.2H(2)O ([PPN](+) = [Ph(3)P=N=PPh(3)](+)), gives the complex [PPN](+)[Et(3)NH](+)[Cl(2)(O)Mo(&mgr;(2)-O)(2)Mo(O)Cl(2)](2)(-) (6) in 90% yield. Its crystal structure [C(36)H(30)Cl(4)MoNOP(2), triclinic, Pna2(1), a = 21.470(6) ?, b = 16.765(2) ?, c = 9.6155(14) ?, alpha = 90 degrees, beta = 90 degrees, gamma = 90 degrees, Z = 16] includes the anion [Cl(2)(O)Mo(&mgr;(2)-O)(2)Mo(O)Cl(2)](2)(-), which is a charged derivative of the species forming the gels in sol-gel processes starting from chloromolybdenum ethoxides. Furthermore, compound 1 is found to be catalytically active in esterification and dehydration reactions of alcohols.     

Theoretical study of the relative stabilities of the alpha/beta3-[XW11O39](m-) lacunary polyoxometalates (X = P, Si)

A computational study of the relative stability of the monolacunary Keggin polyoxotungstates alpha and beta 3-[XW 11O 39] ( m- ) (X = P, m = 7; X = Si, m = 8) was performed. The influence of the nature of different grafted cations and of the central anion XO 4 ( n- ) on the relative stabilities of the lacunary isomers was analyzed. From these results, an interpretation of the structural difference in the metallic frameworks of alpha-[PW 11O 39{Ru(DMSO) 3(H 2O)}] (5-), alpha-[PW 11O 39{Ru(C 6H 6)(H 2O)}] (5-), and beta 3-[SiW 11O 39{Ru(DMSO) 3(H 2O)}] (6-) is proposed, and conclusions are drawn as to how to favor the formation of beta 3 derivatives in future syntheses.     

Preparation and Tungsten-183 NMR Characterization of [alpha-1-P(2)W(17)O(61)](10)(-), [alpha-1-Zn(H(2)O)P(2)W(17)O(61)](8)(-), and [alpha-2-Zn(H(2)O)P(2)W(17)O(61)](8)(-)

The preparation of the alpha-1 and alpha-2 isomers of the Wells-Dawson 17 tungsto derivatives by standard methods is accompanied by a significant proportion of the other isomer present as an impurity. In this study, the alpha-1 and alpha-2 isomers of [Zn(H(2)O)P(2)W(17)O(61)](8)(-) have been prepared in >98% purity by reacting isomerically pure K(9)Li[alpha-1-P(2)W(17)O(61)] and K(10)[alpha-2-P(2)W(17)O(61)], respectively, with ZnCl(2), while rigorously controlling the pH at 4.7. The molecules were isolated as potassium salts. For (183)W NMR and (31)P NMR characterization, both molecules were ion exchanged by cation-exchange chromatography, maintaining the pH at 4.7, to obtain the lithium salts. Removal of water and isolation of a solid sample of [alpha-1-Zn(H(2)O)P(2)W(17)O(61)](8)(-) was achieved by lyophilization at -40 degrees C. The chemical shift data from (31)P and (183)W NMR spectroscopy of the isolated [alpha-1-Zn(H(2)O)P(2)W(17)O(61)](8)(-) and [alpha-2-Zn(H(2)O)P(2)W(17)O(61)](8)(-) isomers are consistent with a mixture of the alpha-1 and alpha-2 isomers reported previously;(1) the molecules have the expected C(1) and C(s)() symmetry, respectively. The [alpha-1-Zn(H(2)O)P(2)W(17)O(61)](8)(-) isomer is stable in the pH range of 4.6-6 at temperatures <35 degrees C. Using the same ion exchange and lyophilization techniques, the lacunary [alpha-1-P(2)W(17)O(61)](10)(-) isomer was isolated as the lithium salt; characterization by (183)W NMR spectroscopy confirms the C(1) symmetry.     

Modifying electronic communication in dimolybdenum units by linkage isomers of bridged oxamidate dianions

Reactions of Mo(2)(O(2)CCH(3))(DAniF)(3), DAniF = N,N'-di-p-anisylformamidinate, with oxamidate dianions [ArNC(O)C(O)NAr](2-), Ar = C(6)H(5) and p-anisyl, give pairs of isomeric compounds where the [Mo(2)] units are bridged by the oxamidate anions. For the alpha isomers, the C-C unit of the dianion is nearly perpendicular to the Mo-Mo bonds, and these are essentially perpendicular to each other. For the beta isomers, the corresponding C-C unit and the Mo-Mo bonds are essentially parallel to each other. Each type of isomer is stable in solution. The electronic communication as measured by the DeltaE(1/2) for the oxidation of each of the Mo(2) units is significantly better for the beta isomers. This is supported also by the appearance of what is conventionally called an intervalence charge-transfer band in the near infrared region upon oxidation of the beta isomers but not the alpha isomers. Molecular mechanics and DFT calculations help explain the relative conformations in the alpha isomers and the relative energy differences between the alpha and beta isomers.     

Copper and Bismuth Complexes Containing Dipyridyl gem-Diolato Ligands: Bi(III)(2)[(2-Py)(2)CO(OH)](2)(O(2)CCF(3))(4)(THF)(2), Cu(II)[(2-Py)(2)CO(OH)](2)(HO(2)CCH(3))(2), and Cu(II)(4)[(2-Py)(2)CO(OH)](2)(O(2)CCH(3))(6)(H(2)O)(2), a Ferromagnetically Coupled Tetranuclear Copper(II) Chain

The reactions of the singly deprotonated di-2-pyridylmethanediol ligand (dpmdH(-)) with copper(II) and bismuth(III) have been investigated. A new dinuclear bismuth(III) complex Bi(2)(dpmdH)(2)(O(2)CCF(3))(4)(THF)(2), 1, has been obtained by the reaction of BiPh(3) with di-2-pyridyl ketone in the presence of HO(2)CCF(3) in tetrahydrofuran (THF). The reaction of Cu(OCH(3))(2) with di-2-pyridyl ketone, H(2)O, and acetic acid in a 1:2:2:2 ratio yielded a mononuclear complex Cu[(2-Py)(2)CO(OH)](2)(HO(2)CCH(3))(2), 2, while the reaction of Cu(OAC)(2)(H(2)O) with di-2-pyridyl ketone and acetic acid in a 2:1:1 ratio yielded a tetranuclear complex Cu(4)[(2-Py)(2)CO(OH)](2)(O(2)CCH(3))(6)(H(2)O)(2), 3. The structures of these complexes were determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analyses. Three different bonding modes of the dpmdH(-) ligand were observed in compounds 1-3. In 2, the dpmdH(-) ligand functions as a tridentate chelate to the copper center and forms a hydrogen bond between the OH group and the noncoordinating HO(2)CCH(3) molecule. In 1 and 3, the dpmdH(-) ligand functions as a bridging ligand to two metal centers through the oxygen atom. The two pyridyl groups of the dpmdH(-) ligand are bound to one bismuth(III) center in 1, while in 3 they are bound two copper(II) centers, respectively. Compound 3 has an unusual one dimensional hydrogen bonded extended structure. The intramolecular magnetic interaction in 3 has been found to be dominated by ferromagnetism. Crystal data: 1, C(38)H(34)N(4)O(14)F(12)Bi(2), triclinic P&onemacr;, a = 11.764(3) ?, b = 11.949(3) ?, c = 9.737(1) ?, alpha =101.36(2) degrees, beta = 105.64(2) degrees, gamma = 63.79(2) degrees, Z = 1; 2, C(26)H(26)N(4)O(8)Cu/CH(2)Cl(2), monoclinic C2/c, a = 25.51(3) ?, b = 7.861(7) ?, c = 16.24(2) ?, beta = 113.08(9) degrees, Z = 4; 3, C(34)H(40)N(4)O(18)Cu(4)/CH(2)Cl(2), triclinic P&onemacr;, a = 10.494(2) ?, b = 13.885(2) ?, c = 7.900(4) ?, alpha =106.52(2) degrees, beta = 90.85(3) degrees, gamma = 94.12(1) degrees, Z = 1.     

Anion-directed crystallization of coordination polymers: syntheses and characterization of Cu(4)(2-pzc)(4)(H(2)O)(8)(Mo(8)O(26)).2H(2)O and Cu(3)(2-pzc)(4)(H(2)O)(2)(V(10)O(28)H(4)).6.5H(2)O (2-pzc = 2-pyrazinecarboxylate)

Two new copper 2-pyrazinecarboxylate (2-pzc) coordination polymers incorporating [Mo(8)O(26)](4-) and [V(10)O(28)H(4)](2-) anions were synthesized and structurally characterized: Cu(4)(2-pzc)(4))(H(2)O)(8)(Mo(8)O(26)).2H(2)O (1) and Cu(3)(2-pzc)(4)(H(2)O)(2)(V(10)O(28)H(4)).6.5H(2)O (2). Crystal data: 1, monoclinic, space group P2(1)/n, a = 11.1547(5) A, b = 13.4149(6) A, c = 15.9633(7) A, beta = 90.816(1) degrees; 2, triclinic, space group P1, a = 10.5896(10) A, b = 10.7921(10) A, c = 13.5168(13) A, alpha = 104.689(2) degrees, beta = 99.103(2) degrees, gamma = 113.419(2) degrees. Compound 1 contains [Cu(2-pzc)(H(2)O)(2)] chains charge-balanced by [Mo(8)O(26)](4-) anions. In compound 2, layers of [Cu(3)(2-pzc)(4)(H(2)O)(2)] form cavities that are filled with [V(10)O(28)H(4)](2-) anions. The magnetic properties of both compounds are described.     

Mechanistic analysis of the electrocatalytic properties of dissolved alpha and beta isomers of [SiW12O40]4- and solid [Ru(bipy)3]2[alpha-SiW12O40] on the reduction of nitrite in acidic aqueous media

Voltammetric studies on the reduction of alpha and beta isomers of the Keggin polyoxometalate anion [SiW12O40]4- reveal a series of electrochemically reversible processes in acidic aqueous media. In the presence of NO2-, catalytic current is detected in the potential region of the [SiW12O40]4-/5- process. Electronic spectroscopy and simulation of voltammetric data undertaken at variable [NO2-] and [H+] allow the following mechanism to be postulated, [SiW12O40]4- + e- <-->[SiW12O40]5-, H+ + HNO2 <--> NO+ + H2O, NO+ + [SiW12O40]5- --> NO + [SiW12O40]4-. The second-order rate constant for the rate-determining step is faster for the alpha isomer than for the beta one. This may be attributed to the different reversible potentials of -0.144 V (alpha isomer) and -0.036 V vs Ag/AgCl (beta isomer) and, hence, smaller driving force for an assumed outer sphere electron-transfer reaction in the case of beta isomer. A stable, water-insoluble, thin-film [Ru(bipy)3]2[alpha-SiW12O40] chemically modified electrode was generated electrochemically via ion-exchange of [Ru(bipy)3]2+ with Bu4N+ in the [Bu4N]4[alpha-SiW12O40] solid. The first reduction process with this modified electrode gives rise to the reaction [Ru(bipy)3]2[alpha-SiW12O40](solid) + H+(soln) + e- <--> H[Ru(bipy)3]2[alpha-SiW12O40](solid). The need to transfer a proton from the solution to the solid phase for charge neutralization purposes introduces a hydrogen-ion concentration dependence into this reaction, which is not found in the solution-phase study. Nevertheless, the voltammetric catalytic activity with respect to nitrite reduction is retained with the chemically modified electrode. However, nitrite catalysis with the [Ru(bipy)3]2[alpha-SiW12O40]-modified electrode is now independent of concentration of H+, rather than exhibiting a first-order dependence, and full mechanistic details for this process are unknown.     

Formation of a spiral-shaped inorganic-organic hybrid chain, [Cu(II)(2,2'-bipy)(H(2)O)(2)Al(OH)(6)Mo(6)O(18)](n)()(n)()(-): influence of intra- and interchain supramolecular interactions

A novel chainlike coordination polymer [Cu(II)(2,2'-bipy)(H(2)O)(2)Al(OH)(6)Mo(6)O(18)](n)()(n)()(-), formed from a heteropolyanion [Al(OH)(6)Mo(6)O(18)](3)(-) as a building unit and a copper(II) complex fragment, [Cu(II)(2,2'-bipy)(H(2)O)(2)](2+), as a linker, provides the first example of an extended structure based on an Anderson type of polyanion and a transition metal complex with organic ligand. The intra- and interchain O-H.O hydrogen-bonding interactions are seemingly responsible for the spiral shape of this chain. Crystal data: triclinic space group Ponemacr;, a = 11.2253(18) A, b = 14.5194(17) A, c = 15.2672(10) A, alpha = 112.191(8) degrees, beta = 106.693(9) degrees, gamma = 93.916(13) degrees, and Z = 2.     

Exploring the correlation between network structure and electron binding energy in the (H(2)O)(7)(-) cluster through isomer-photoselected vibrational predissociation spectroscopy and ab initio calculations: addressing complexity beyond types I-III

We report a combined photoelectron and vibrational spectroscopy study of the (H(2)O)(7)(-) cluster anions in order to correlate structural changes with the observed differences in electron binding energies of the various isomers. Photoelectron spectra of the (H(2)O)(7)(-) . Ar(m) clusters are obtained over the range of m=0-10. These spectra reveal the formation of a new isomer (I') for m>5, the electron binding energy of which is about 0.15 eV higher than that of the type I form previously reported to be the highest binding energy species [Coe et al., J. Chem. Phys. 92, 3980 (1990)]. Isomer-selective vibrational predissociation spectra are obtained using both the Ar dependence of the isomer distribution and photochemical depopulation of the more weakly (electron) binding isomers. The likely structures of the isomers at play are identified with the aid of electronic structure calculations, and the electron binding energies, as well as harmonic vibrational spectra, are calculated for 28 low-lying forms for comparison with the experimental results. The HOH bending spectrum of the low binding type II form is dominated by a band that is moderately redshifted relative to the bending origin of the bare water molecule. Calculations trace this feature primarily to the bending vibration localized on a water molecule in which a dangling H atom points toward the electron cloud. Both higher binding forms (I and I') display the characteristic patterns in the bending and OH stretching regions signaling electron attachment primarily to a water molecule in an AA binding site, a persistent motif found in non-isomer-selective spectra of the clusters up to (H(2)O)(50)(-).     

Site-specific addition of D(2)O to the (H(2)O)(6)(-) "hydrated electron" cluster: isomer interconversion and substitution at the double H-bond acceptor (AA) electron-binding site

We report the results of an experimental study designed to establish whether, once formed, one of the isomer classes of the hydrated electron clusters, (H(2)O)(n)(-), can interconvert with others when a water molecule is added by condensation. This is accomplished in an Ar-cluster mediated approach where a single intact D(2)O molecule is collisionally incorporated into argon-solvated water hexamer anions, creating the isotopically labeled D(2)O.(H(2)O)(6)(-).Ar(n) heptamer anion. Photoelectron and infrared predissociation spectroscopies are employed both to characterize the isomers generated in the condensation event and to track the position that the D(2)O label adopts within these isomeric structures. Despite the fact that the water hexamer anion precursor clusters initially exist in the isomer I form, incorporation of D(2)O produces mostly isomers I' and II in the labeled heptamer, which bind the electron more (I') or less (II) strongly than does the isomer I class. Isomers I and I' are known to feature electron binding primarily onto a single water molecule that resides in an AA (A = H-bond acceptor) site in the network. Surprisingly, the D(2)O molecule can displace this special electron-binding H(2)O molecule such that the anionic cluster retains the high binding arrangement. In the more weakly binding isomer II clusters, the D(2)O molecule fractionates preferentially to sites that give rise to the vibrational signature of isomer II.     

Structural and electronic properties of hetero-transition-metal Keggin anions: a DFT Study of alpha/beta-[XW12O40]n- (X = CrVI, VV, TiIV, FeIII, CoIII, NiIII, CoII, and ZnII) relative stability

Density functional theory calculations have been carried out to investigate the electronic structures and the alpha/beta relative stability of Keggin-typed [XW(12)O(40)]n- anions with transition metal as heteroatom X (X = Cr(VI), V(V), Ti(IV), Fe(III), Co(III), Ni(III), Co(II) and Zn(II)). Nice agreement in geometries between computation and experiment has been obtained, and the higher stability of the alpha isomer over the beta one has been confirmed. Structural parameter analysis reveals that the {M(3)O(13)} triads in both alpha and beta isomers contract considerably with the increase of the negative anionic charge, while the overall size of both isomers shrinks only slightly. Fragment molecular orbital analysis shows that except alpha/beta-[TiW(12)O(40)]4-, the electronic structures of Keggin anions can be described by the insertion of the e and/or t2 orbital of XO4n- into the frontier orbitals of W(12)O(36) cage, and this leads to the specific redox property, which is different from that of the Keggin anions with main-group elements as heteroatoms. Energy decomposition analysis shows that the enhanced intrinsic stability of the alpha isomer in Td arrangement of W(12)O(36) shell and the larger deformation of the alpha over the beta isomer are two dominating factors and contribute oppositely to the alpha/beta relative stability.     

Aqueous speciation studies of europium(III) phosphotungstate

The incorporation of lanthanide ions into polyoxometalates may be a unique approach to generate new luminescent, magnetic, and catalytic functional materials. To realize these new applications of lanthanide polyoxometalates, it is imperative to understand the solution speciation chemistry and its impact on solid-state materials. In this study we find that the aqueous speciation of europium(III) and the trivacant polyoxometalate, PW9O34 9-, is a function of pH, countercation, and stoichiometry. For example, at low pH, the lacunary (PW11O39)7- predominates and the 1:1 Eu(PW11O39)4-, 2, forms. As the pH is increased, the 1:2 complex, Eu(PW11O39)2 11- species, 3, and (NH4)22[(Eu2PW10O38)4(W3O8(H2O)2(OH)4].44H2O, a Eu8 hydroxo/oxo cluster, 1, form. Countercations modulate this effect; large countercations, such as K+ and Cs+, promote the formation of species 3 and 1. Addition of Al(III) as a counterion results in low pH and formation of [Eu(H2O)3(alpha-2-P2W17O61)]2, 4, with Al(III) counterions bound to terminal W-O bonds. The four species observed in these speciation studies have been isolated, crystallized, and characterized by X-ray crystallography, solution multinuclear NMR spectroscopy, and other appropriate tech-niques. These species are 1, (NH4)22[(Eu2PW10O38)4(W3O8(H2O)2(OH)4].44H2O (P; a=20.2000(0), b=22.6951(6), c=25.3200(7) A; alpha=65.6760(10), beta=88.5240(10), gamma=86.0369(10) degrees; V=10550.0(5) A3; Z=2), 2, Al(H3O)[Eu(H2O)2PW11O34].20H2O (P, a=11.4280(23), b=11.5930(23), c=19.754(4) A; alpha=103.66(3), beta=95.29(3), gamma=102.31(3) degrees; V =2456.4(9) A3; Z=2), 3, Cs11Eu(PW11O34)2.28H2O (P; a=12.8663(14), b=19.8235(22), c=21.7060(23) A; alpha=114.57(0), beta=91.86(0), gamma=102.91(0) degrees ; V=4858.3(9) A3; Z=2), 4, Al2(H3O)8[Eu(H2O)3(alpha-2-P2W17O61)]2.29H2O (P; a=12.649(6), b=16.230(8), c=21.518(9) A; alpha=111.223(16), beta=94.182(18), gamma=107.581(17) degrees ; V=3842(3) A3; Z=1).     

Ab initio study of the structures and stabilities of the dimer of ethyl cation, (C(2)H(+)(5))(2) and related C(4)H(10)(2+) isomers.

Ab initio calculations at the MP4(SDTQ)/6-311G//MP2/6-31G level were performed to study the structures and stabilities of the dimer of ethyl cation, (C(2)H(+)(5))(2), and related C(4)H(10)(2+) isomers. Two doubly hydrogen bridged diborane type trans 1 and cis 2 isomers were located as minima. The trans isomer was found to be more favorable than cis isomer by only 0.6 kcal/mol. Several other minima for C(4)H(10)(2+) were also located. However, the global energy minimum corresponds to C-H (C(4) position) protonated 2-butyl cation 10. Structure 10 was computed to be substantially more stable than 1 by 31.7 kcal/mol. The structure 10 was found to be lower in energy than 2-butyl cation 13 by 34.4 kcal/mol.     

Novel acetate polyoxomolybdate "host" accommodating a zigzag-chainlike "guest" of five edge-shared sodium cations: Na(21)[[Na(5)(H(2)O)(14)]within[Mo(46)O(134)(OH)(10)(mu-CH(3)COO)(4)]].CH(3)COONa. approximately equal to 95H(2)O

A novel ESR-silent polyoxomolybdate Na(21)([Na(5)(H(2)O)(14)][Mo(46)O(134)(OH)(10)(mu-CH(3)COO)(4)]).CH(3)COONa.approximately equal to 90H(2)O (3) was simply synthesized in high yield by reducing an acidified aqueous solution of Na(2)MoO(4).2H(2)O and CH(3)COONa.3H(2)O. The structure of 3 is constructed by a 46-member crown-shaped anion, [Na(5)(H(2)O)(14)]within[Mo(V)(20)Mo(VI)(26)O(134)(OH)(10)(mu-CH(3)COO)(4)](21-), 3a, which is built up by three different but related building blocks in a new mode and further connected into layers via Na(+) and hydrogen bonds. Crystal data of compound 3: triclinic space group P(-1); a = 16.4065(3), b = 17.4236(2), c = 20.8247(3) A; alpha= 87.57, beta= 67.9810(10), gamma= 80.6970(10)o; V = 5445.08(14) A(3); Z = 1; D(calcd) = 2.902. Structure solution and refinement are based on 19014 reflections, R = 0.0750.     

Low-lying isomers and finite temperature behavior of (H2O)6 -

(H2O)(6) (-) appears as a "magic" number water cluster in (H2O)(n) (-) mass spectra. The structure of the (H2O)(6) (-) isomer dominating the experimental population has been established only recently [N. I. Hammer et al., J. Phys. Chem. A 109, 7896 (2005)], and the most noteworthy characteristic of this isomer is the localization of the excess electron in the vicinity of a double-acceptor monomer. In the present work, we use a quantum Drude model to characterize the low-energy isomers and the finite temperature properties of (H2O)(6) (-). Comparison with ab initio calculations shows that the use of a water model employing distributed polarizabilities and distributed repulsive sites is necessary to correctly reproduce the energy ordering of the low-lying isomers. Both the simulations and the ab initio calculations predict that there are several isomers of (H2O)(6) (-) significantly lower in energy than the experimentally observed species, suggesting that the experimental distribution is far from equilibrium.