A brief introduction to transition metals in unusual oxidation states

As we celebrate the 100th year since Alfred Werner’s Nobel Prize in Chemistry award for his pioneering work on coordination chemistry, we look back in this review at some of the more prominent examples of transition metals in unusual oxidation states. This area of coordination chemistry has been studied by chemists all over the world for the best part of this past century, with applications being found in a vast array of environments. Hopefully, this simple review will allow us a glimpse of the great potential and possibility in the chemistry of transition metals in unusual oxidation states.

Graphical abstractAs we celebrate the 100th year since Alfred Werner’s Nobel Prize in Chemistry award for his pioneering work on coordination chemistry, we look back in this review at some of the more prominent examples of transition metals in unusual oxidation states. This area of coordination chemistry has been studied by chemists all over the world for the best part of this past century, with applications being found in a vast array of environments. Hopefully, this simple review will allow us a glimpse of the great potential and possibility in the chemistry of transition metals in unusual oxidation states.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► A quick look at some aspects of transition metals in unusual oxidation states. ► All 10 transition metal groups, lanthanides and actinides are included. ► Various examples to show how fascinating this area of chemistry is.