Quantum-chemical and correlation study on tautomerism and ionization of Quinalizarin

Quinalizarin and anions derived therefrom exist as equilibrium mixtures of different tautomers and conformers, whose structure depends on the conditions. Quinalizarin was shown to have 9,10-, 1,10-, 1,4-, 1,5-, 1,7-, and 2,9-quinoid structures, but not 1,2-quinoid structure; and its anions in ethanol media were identified as 9,10-, 1,10-, 2,9-, and 1,5-quinoid tautomers. Interactions with solvents and ionization could give rise to displacement of tautomeric and conformational equilibria, leading to considerable change in the number and position of πl,π* bands in the electronic absorption spectra, which are responsible for the color.