The crystal structure of Ba2V2O7

Ba₂V₂O₇ is triclinic with a = 13.571(3), b = 7.320(2), c = 7.306(2) Å, α = 90.09(1), β = 99.48(1), β = 99.48(1), γ = 87.32(1)°, V = 7.15.1 ų, Z = 4, and space group $\text{P}\text{1}$. The crystal structure was solved by Patterson and Fourier methods and refined by full-matrix least-squares analysis to a R_w of 0.034 (R = 0.034) using 2484 reflections measured on a Syntex $\text{P}\text{1}$ automatic four-circle diffractometer. The structure has two unique divanadate groups that are repeated by the b and c lattice translations to form sheets of divanadate groups parallel to (100). These sheets are linked by four unique Ba atoms that lie between these sheets. Ba(1) and Ba(3) are coordinated by eight oxygens arranged in a distorted biaugmented triangular prism and a distorted cubic antiprism, respectively. Ba(2) is coordinated by 10 oxygens arranged in a distorted gyroelongated square dipyramid and Ba(4) is coordinated by nine oxygens arranged in a distorted triaugmented triangular prism. These coordination numbers are substantiated by a bond strength analysis of the structure, and the variation in 〈BaO〉 distances is compatible with the assigned cation and anion coordination numbers. Both divanadate groups are in the eclipsed configuraton with 〈VO(br)〉 bond lengths of 1.821(4) and 1.824(4) Å and VO(br)V angles of 125.6(3) and 123.7(3)°, respectively. Examination of the divanadate groups in a series of structures allows certain generalizations to be made. Longer 〈VO(br)〉 bond lengths are generally associated with smaller VO(br)V angles. When VO(br)V < 140°, the divanadate group is generally in an eclipsed configuration; when VO(br)V > 140°, the divanadate group is generally in a staggered configuration. Nontetrahedral cations with large coordination numbers require more oxygens with which to bond, and hence O(br) is more likely to be three coordinate, with the divanadate group in the eclipsed configuration. In the eclipsed configuration, decrease in VO(br)V promotes bonding between O(br) and nontetrahedral cations, and hence smaller nontetrahedral cations are generally associated with smaller VO(br)V angles.