Orthovanadates

Orthovanadates are a group of inorganic compounds composed of orthovanadate ions, which have the formula [VO3]−. These ions are derived from vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) and have a tetrahedral shape. Orthovanadates are also known as metavanadates when they exist in a lower oxidation state.

The first synthesized orthovanadate was sodium orthovanadate (Na3VO4), discovered in the 19th century. Since then, various metal orthovanadates have been prepared, including those of alkaline earth metals like magnesium and calcium. Orthovanadates can be prepared through the hydrolysis of vanadium oxyfluoride (VOF3), followed by neutralization with a base, or by the thermal decomposition of a mixture of vanadium pentoxide and the desired metal oxide.

Orthovanadates have several distinct properties that make them useful for applications. They are typically insoluble in water but soluble in acidic solutions, which allows for their use as ion-selective electrodes in electrochemistry. They also have specific biological activity, making them valuable in research related to vanadium's role in various biological processes.

In addition, orthovanadates exhibit distinct magnetic properties, making them the subject of studies in advanced materials research. The microstructure and thermal expansion of certain orthovanadates have been extensively studied, providing a foundation for their use in optoelectronic and electronic device applications.

Overall, orthovanadates continue to attract attention due to their multifaceted properties and potential uses in materials science, biology, and the development of new analytical tools. Their unique chemistry has also led to a greater understanding of vanadium's behavior and the role it plays in a wide range of systems.