hexachloropalladic

Hexachloropalladic refers to compounds containing the hexachloropalladate(IV) anion, [PdCl6]2-. This is a coordination complex where a central palladium atom in the +4 oxidation state is bonded to six chloride ligands. The most common salt is ammonium hexachloropalladate(IV), (NH4)2[PdCl6], a red crystalline solid. Other hexachloropalladates can be formed with different cations.

Hexachloropalladates are typically prepared by the oxidation of palladium(II) compounds in the presence of chloride ions. For example, reacting palladium(II) chloride with chlorine gas in hydrochloric acid can yield hexachloropalladate(IV) salts. These compounds are generally stable in air but can decompose upon heating. They are soluble in water and some polar organic solvents.

The hexachloropalladate(IV) anion is characterized by its octahedral geometry around the palladium center. The palladium-chlorine bonds are covalent. The color of hexachloropalladates is attributed to electronic transitions within the complex. While not as widely used as some other palladium compounds, hexachloropalladates can serve as precursors in the synthesis of other palladium complexes or as oxidizing agents in certain chemical reactions. Their applications are primarily in research and specialized chemical synthesis.