New complexes of 3,4-dimethoxyphenylacetic acid with selected transition metal ions: Spectral, thermal, and magnetic properties

3,4-Dimethoxyphenylacetates of Mn(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), and Zn(II) of general formula M(C10H11O4)(2)center dot nH(2)O, where n = 1, 2 or 4 depending on M(II) ions, are obtained. The complexes crystallize in monoclinic or triclinic systems. The carboxylate groups act as bidentate chelating or bridging ligands. On heating in the air (293-1173 K) they decompose in three steps finally forming oxides of the corresponding metals(II) or their mixtures. Magnetic moments of compounds were determined in the ranges of 76-303 and 4-300 K.