periodiate

Periodiate refers to the anion with the chemical formula IO4⁻. It is one of the oxyanions of iodine, where iodine is in its +7 oxidation state. Periodate salts are formed by the reaction of iodic acid with bases or by the oxidation of lower oxidation state iodine compounds. The most common periodate is the periodate ion, but other periodate species exist, such as the metaperiodate (IO3⁻) and paraperiodate ions, though these terms are sometimes used interchangeably or are less common.

Periodates are strong oxidizing agents. Their oxidizing power depends on the pH of the solution and the specific periodate species present. In acidic solutions, periodates can be very potent oxidizers. They are often used in analytical chemistry for the determination of various substances, including manganese and certain organic compounds. In organic chemistry, periodates are employed for oxidative cleavage reactions, such as the splitting of vicinal diols (1,2-diols) into aldehydes or ketones. Sodium metaperiodate (NaIO4) is a commonly used reagent for these purposes.

Periodates can be prepared by the electrolytic oxidation of iodates or by chemical oxidation using strong oxidizing agents like hypochlorites. Due to their strong oxidizing properties, periodates should be handled with care. They can react vigorously with reducing agents.