triiodide

Triiodide is a term most commonly used for the triiodide anion, I3−. It forms by the association of diatomic iodine (I2) with iodide (I−) in solution through the equilibrium I2 + I− ⇌ I3−. In practice, many iodine-rich diagnostic and analytical solutions, such as Lugol’s solution, contain a substantial concentration of I3−, which is responsible for much of the characteristic brown coloration.

The I3− ion is typically described as a linear triatomic species. It can be viewed as a resonance system in which charge and bonding are delocalized over three iodine atoms, often depicted as two equivalent I−I–I− units. The bond lengths in I3− are shorter than a typical single I–I bond but longer than a double bond, reflecting its polyiodide character and delocalized electron structure.

In solution, I3− behaves as a mild oxidizing agent, capable of being reduced to I−. Its redox behavior is exploited in iodometric titrations and other iodine-iodide chemistry experiments to quantify oxidizing or reducing species. The presence of I3− changes the absorption spectrum of iodine solutions, giving rise to distinct visible light absorption that underpins the color and analytical signals used in procedures that rely on iodine chemistry.

Polyiodide chemistry also encompasses higher polyiodide species in solid-state salts or concentrated solutions, where chains or networks of iodine atoms can form. These species are related to I3− but differ in composition and structure.

Safety considerations apply to iodine-containing solutions, as iodine and iodide can irritate skin and mucous membranes; appropriate handling and disposal are recommended.