Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 4, 2026

Accessing Valuable Ligand Supports for Transition Metals: A Modified, Intermediate Scale Preparation of 1,2,3,4,5-Pentamethylcyclopentadiene
Published on: March 20, 2017
Synthesis and characterization of cerium and yttrium alkoxide complexes supported by ferrocene-based chelating
Erin M Broderick1, Peter S Thuy-Boun, Neng Guo
1Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA.
Abstract:
Two series of Schiff base metal complexes were investigated, where each series was supported by an ancillary ligand incorporating a ferrocene backbone and different N=X functionalities. One ligand is based on an imine, while the other is based on an iminophosphorane group. Cerium(IV), cerium(III), and yttrium(III) alkoxide complexes supported by the two ligands were synthesized. All metal complexes were characterized by cyclic voltammetry. Additionally, NMR, Mössbauer, X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES), and absorption spectroscopies were used. The experimental data indicate that iron remains in the +2 oxidation state and that cerium(IV) does not engage in a redox behavior with the ancillary ligand.
Related Concept Videos
Complexation Equilibria: The Chelate Effect
Oxidation of Alkenes: Syn Dihydroxylation with Osmium Tetraoxide
Complexation Equilibria: Factors Influencing Stability of Complexes
EDTA: Auxiliary Complexing Reagents
Crystal Field Theory - Octahedral Complexes
To explain the observed behavior of transition metal complexes (such as colors), a model involving electrostatic interactions between the electrons from the ligands and the electrons in the unhybridized d orbitals of the central metal atom has been developed. This electrostatic model is crystal field theory (CFT). It helps to understand, interpret, and predict the colors, magnetic behavior, and some structures of coordination compounds of transition metals.
CFT focuses on...
Properties of Organometallic Compounds
