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Cuprous

Cuprous refers to copper in the +1 oxidation state, denoted Cu+. The term is used to distinguish compounds and ions containing copper in this oxidation state from cupric, which denotes Cu2+. In cuprous compounds copper often exhibits a d10 configuration, which influences geometry and color, with many Cu+ salts being colorless or white. Cuprous oxide, Cu2O, is a notable exception as a red solid.

Common cuprous salts include copper(I) chloride (CuCl), copper(I) bromide (CuBr), and copper(I) iodide (CuI). Cu2O occurs

In aqueous solution, Cu+ is relatively unstable: it is readily oxidized to Cu2+ in the presence of

Cuprous compounds are discussed in contrast to copper in the +2 oxidation state, cupric. The term derives

naturally
as
the
mineral
cuprite
and
is
used
as
a
pigment
and
in
various
catalytic
applications.
Copper(I)
halides
have
roles
in
materials
science
and
organic
synthesis,
where
Cu+
acts
as
a
source
of
copper
in
catalytic
or
stoichiometric
steps.
oxygen
and
can
undergo
disproportionation,
2
Cu+
→
Cu2+
+
Cu(s).
To
remain
in
the
+1
state
in
solution,
Cu+
is
stabilized
by
complexation
with
soft
ligands
such
as
cyanide,
thiosulfate,
or
certain
phosphines.
Cu(I)
complexes
tend
to
have
linear,
trigonal,
or
tetrahedral
geometries
depending
on
the
ligands.
from
cuprum,
the
Latin
name
for
copper.