Solvatochromic behavior of the electronic absorption spectra of some azo derivatives of amino pyridines

The electronic absorption spectra of a series of the entitled eight compounds containing groups with variable electronic characters were recorded. The solvents were selected to cover a wide range of parameters (refractive index, dielectric constant and hydrogen bonding capacity). The electronic transitions are assigned and the solvent induced spectral shifts have been analyzed in relation to the different solute-solvent interaction mechanisms using computational chemistry. The regression analysis is applied for correlation parameters. The phenomenon of tautomerism is explained. The electronic character of the substituent as well as the chemistry of the solvent are the major factors for the solvatochromic behavior.