Vibrational spectra of halomercurate(II) complexes in solution

Abstract

The Raman spectra of solutions in acetone of crystalline salts with anionic stoicheiometries HgX₃^-, HgX₄^2-, Hg₂X₅-, and Hg₃X₈^2- (where X = Cl, Br, or I) were determined. The dominant species identified in all cases except (pyH)₂HgI₄ was HgX₃- which probably had a bent (C_3v) configuration. The species Hg₂I₅- was also identified in solutions of Me₄NHg.₂I₅. The disproportionation reactions are discussed in terms of ion-solvent interactions.