HexahydroxystannateIV

Hexahydroxystannate(IV) is an inorganic chemical compound with the formula [Sn(OH)6]2−. It is the hexahydroxy complex of tin in its +4 oxidation state. This anion is typically found in aqueous solutions, where it is formed by the reaction of tin(IV) compounds, such as tin(IV) chloride or tin(IV) oxide, with a strong base like sodium hydroxide. The hexahydroxystannate(IV) ion is relatively stable in alkaline conditions.

In solution, the hexahydroxystannate(IV) ion exists as a coordination complex where a central tin atom is bonded to six hydroxide ligands. The overall charge of the complex is -2. It can form salts with various cations, such as sodium, potassium, or ammonium. For example, sodium hexahydroxystannate(IV) has the formula Na2[Sn(OH)6].

Hexahydroxystannate(IV) compounds are generally white, crystalline solids. They are soluble in water, particularly in alkaline solutions, but their solubility can decrease in neutral or acidic conditions as the tin(IV) species may precipitate out as tin(IV) oxide or hydroxide.

The primary applications of hexahydroxystannate(IV) compounds are often related to the chemical industry, including its use as an intermediate in the production of other tin compounds, as a stabilizer in polymers, and in some metal plating processes. It is also studied for its potential in areas such as catalysis and materials science due to the properties of tin.