tantalateV

Tantalate(V) refers to the tantalum(V) oxoanions and related compounds in which tantalum is in the +5 oxidation state. The principal species is the orthotantalate anion TaO4^3-, in which a central tantalum atom is surrounded tetrahedrally by four oxide ligands. This is analogous to other group 5 oxoanions such as vanadate and molybdate, but the chemistry reflects tantalum’s particular electronic structure and oxidation state.

In aqueous solution, the TaO4^3- anion can undergo protonation to form conjugate acids such as HTaO4^2- and H2TaO4^- depending on pH. The exact speciation is pH-dependent and influences reactivity, complex formation, and stability. Tantalate(V) ions form salts with various countercations, including alkali and ammonium species, yielding tantalate salts that are used in inorganic synthesis and materials science contexts.

Preparation and occurrence: Tantalate(V) species arise when tantalum oxide or tantalum-containing precursors are exposed to oxidative, basic, or hydrolytic conditions that promote formation of Ta–O networks. In solid-state chemistry and materials science, tantalate units are incorporated into ceramics, glasses, and related oxide materials, where TaO4 tetrahedra link with other metal-oxide units to form extended networks.

Applications and relevance: Tantalate(V) is important as a building block in the synthesis of tantalum-containing ceramics, pigments, and functional materials. Its chemistry parallels other early transition metal oxoanions, while distinct properties reflect tantalum’s +5 oxidation state, coordination environment, and protonation behavior.