MolybdenumIV

Molybdenum(IV) refers to the chemical element molybdenum in its +4 oxidation state. This oxidation state is relatively common for molybdenum and is found in a variety of compounds. For example, molybdenum(IV) oxide, MoO2, is a dark blue solid that is stable in air. Molybdenum(IV) sulfide, MoS2, is a layered material that exhibits interesting electrical and lubricating properties and is used as a catalyst in some industrial processes.

In solution, molybdenum(IV) species are often unstable and tend to disproportionate or oxidize. However, certain complexes containing molybdenum in the +4 oxidation state can be stabilized. These complexes are of interest in coordination chemistry and catalysis. For instance, some molybdenum(IV) complexes have been studied for their potential in nitrogen fixation research, mimicking the active site of the nitrogenase enzyme. The electronic configuration of molybdenum in the +4 state is [Kr] 4d^2. Understanding the chemistry of molybdenum(IV) is important for various fields, including materials science, inorganic chemistry, and biochemistry.