Radiation-chemical processes as disclosure of electronic states in a bis(dinitrogen) molybdenum complex

On the basis of experimental data the energy levels of the central-atom orbitals in the complex [Mo(N2)2(dppe)2] [dppe = 1,2-bis(diphenylphosphine)ethane] were calculated. Using the diagram thus obtained the eletronic configuration of the irradiation-generated ion, [Mo(N2)2(dppe)2]−, was determined to be as follows: (b2g)2 (eg)4 (b1g)1 or (b2g)2 (eg)4 (eu). The yields from the decomposition of [Mo(N2)2(dppe)2] in the solid phase in a hydrogen atmosphere were determined on the basis of the decrease in band intensities at 306 and 377 nm: G(− MoN2)306nm = 0.01, and G(− MoP)377nm = 0.1 (molecules per 100 eV). In toluene solution it was found that G(− MoN2) > G(− MoP). The yields observed were in accordance with the calculated levels. Using a mass spectrometer the volatile products of [Mo(N2)2(dppe)2] radiolysis in H2 and O2 atmospheres were identified as H3N, H4N2, NO and N2O. In the light of the results mentioned above (as well as the IR results) a mechanism for the radiolysis of [Mo(N2)2(dppe)2] in the solid phase was proposed.