Ab initio calculation of the electronic structure of TCNQ and its ions

Ab initio SCF-LCAO-MO calculations have been performed for TCNQ and its positive and negative ions in various electronic states. A basis set consisting of 412 primitive Gaussian type orbitals contracted to 180 was used in the investigation. The electron density distribution in TCNQ and the negative ions, and the redistribution upon ionization has been illustrated by plotting difference density contour maps. The quinone structure of the neutral TCNQ system undergoes a transformation to a benzenoid structure when electrons are added. Electronic transitions, ionization potentials and electron affinities have also been calculated.