On the electronic structure of [W(WS4)2]

The ground-state electronic structure of W₃S₈²⁻ has been calculated using the relativistic SCF-MS-X method. The results confirm a formal oxidation state of +2 for the central tungsten atom and a + 6 oxidation state for the terminal ones. A W---|W σ bond is detected within the 7a_1g molecular orbital leading to a W---|W bond order of 1/2. The energy order of the X MOs of ligand field interest, localized on the central metal ion, is explained based on the simple angular overlap approach taking into consideration the W---|W interactions.