Effects of a proximal base on water oxidation and proton reduction catalyzed by geometric isomers of [Ru(tpy)(pynap)(OH2)]2+

Basic difference: The importance of a pendent base in promoting proton-coupled electron-transfer reactions with low activation barriers has been discussed for H(+) reduction or H(2) oxidation in acetonitrile. Investigation of the interaction between a base positioned in the second coordination sphere of a complex and a water ligand in water oxidation reactions using geometric isomers of Ru(tpy)(pynap)(OH(2))](2+) (see picture) gave intriguing results.