Tetrachloroplatinate

Tetrachloroplatinate refers to the chemical species with the formula [PtCl4]2−. It is an anion, meaning it carries a negative charge. The central atom is platinum in the +2 oxidation state, coordinated to four chloride ligands. This complex is square planar in geometry, a common characteristic for d8 metal complexes like Pt(II).

Tetrachloroplatinate is typically encountered as a salt, where the cation balances the 2- charge of the anion. Common examples include potassium tetrachloroplatinate(II), K2[PtCl4], and sodium tetrachloroplatinate(II), Na2[PtCl4]. These salts are often soluble in water and can be yellow or orange in color.

The tetrachloroplatinate ion is an important precursor in the synthesis of other platinum coordination compounds. It can undergo substitution reactions where the chloride ligands are replaced by other ligands, such as ammonia or amines. This reactivity makes it a key intermediate in the production of platinum-based anticancer drugs like cisplatin. For instance, the reaction of tetrachloroplatinate with ammonia leads to the formation of cis-diamminedichloroplatinum(II), the active component of cisplatin.

Historically, tetrachloroplatinate salts have been used in various chemical processes and as analytical reagents. Their ability to form stable complexes with platinum makes them valuable in platinum chemistry and related industrial applications.