In: Chemistry
What is the oxidation state of iron in FeO4?
let x = oxidation number Fe
x + ( 4 x -2 )= -2
x - -8 = -2
x = +6
oxidation number Fe in FeO4 2- = +6
The experimentally known highest oxidation state of iron has been determined to be Fe(VI) so far. Here we report a combined matrix-isolation infrared spectroscopic and theoretical study of two interconvertible iron oxide anions: a dioxoiron peroxide complex [(η2-O2)FeO2]− with a C2v-structure and a tetroxide FeO4− with a D2d tetrahedral structure, which are formed by co-condensation of laser-ablated iron atoms and electrons with O2/Ar mixtures at 4 K. Quantum chemistry theoretical studies indicate that the Jahn–Teller distorted tetroxide FeO4− anion is a d1 species with hereto the highest iron formal oxidation state Fe(VII).