Characterization of a reduced molybdenum-oxo compound derived from an oxo-transfer process under stoichiometric conditions

The stoichiometric oxidation of phosphanes or alcohols by a Mo(VI)-dioxo complex (1) followed both by UV spectroscopy results in the formation of a Mo(V) dimer with two μ-oxo bridges and two terminal oxo functions (3). Its structure is determined by an X-ray analysis depicting a Mo–Mo bond well in accord with the diamagnetic character of the complex. The spectroscopic follow up of the oxygen atom transfer process shows clearly that complex 3 is the end product of a series of intermediates among which one (2) is postulated as being a geometrical isomer of 3.

The stoichiometric oxidation of phosphanes or alcohols by a Mo(VI) dioxo complex (1) followed both by UV spectroscopy results in the formation of a Mo (V) dimer with two μ-oxo bridges and two terminal oxo functions (3). Its structure is determined by an X-ray analysis. The follow up by UV spectroscopy of the oxygen atom transfer process shows clearly that complex 3 is the end product of a series of intermediates. Its high stability towards oxygen atom donors suggets strongly that it cannot be part of any catalytic cycle. Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide