Crystal structure, spectral and magnetic behavior of copper(II)(5-chlorosalicylato)2 (aqua)2

The synthesis and characterization of Cu(5-Clsal)(2)(H2O)(2) (5-Clsal=5-chlorosalicylate) are reported. Characterization of the compound was based on elemental analysis, electronic and EPR spectra, and magnetic susceptibility measurement over a temperature range 93-239 K. An X-ray analysis of Cu(5-Clsal)(2)(H2O)(2) was carried out, showing a polymeric chain of copper(II) atoms bridged by pairs of water molecules with Cu-O(bridge) bond lengths of 1.970(2) and 2.718(2)Angstrom. The coordination sphere about each copper(II) atom is completed (on the X-axis) by a trans-pair of unidentate 5-chlorosalicylate anions. The bridging oxygen atoms arrange a planar Cu2O2 rhombus. The relationship between degree of distortion and g-values from EPR spectra is also discussed.