tetrahalometalate

A tetrahalometalate is an inorganic coordination complex with the general formula [MX4]n-, where M is a central metal atom, X is a halogen atom (fluorine, chlorine, bromine, or iodine), and n is the charge of the complex anion. These complexes typically adopt a tetrahedral geometry around the central metal atom. The charge of the complex depends on the oxidation state of the metal and the valency of the halogen ligands. For example, tetrachloridocuprate(II), [CuCl4]2-, is a common tetrahalometalate where copper is in the +2 oxidation state. Tetrabromoaurate(III), [AuBr4]-, features gold in the +3 oxidation state. The nature of the metal and the halogen influences the stability and properties of these complexes. They can be found as salts with various cations, such as alkali metals or ammonium. Tetrahalometalates are used in various applications, including as catalysts in organic synthesis, in electroplating processes, and as analytical reagents. Their formation and behavior are governed by principles of coordination chemistry, including ligand field theory and the VSEPR model, which predicts the tetrahedral arrangement of the four halide ligands around the central metal.