The solution properties of two isomeric forms of the V−EDDA
complex (the symmetric α-cis and asymmetric
β-cis) have been studied using multinuclear NMR spectroscopy.
The isomerization constant of the aqueous
equilibrium mixture expressed as [α-cis]/[β-cis]
increased on the addition of organic solvents (methanol,
formamide,
and DMSO) and decreased on the addition of salts (NaCl,
NaClO4, and NH4Cl). The isomerization
constant and
corresponding thermodynamic parameters were determined under a variety
of conditions. The solution studies
were consistent with the interpretation that solvation is the major
contributor to isomer stability. Solid state
characterization of the β-cis isomer of
NH4[VO2(EDDA)] confirmed this
conclusion and allowed detailed
examination of the role of hydrogen bonding in this complex. The
structural parameters for this complex are
triclinic, P1̄, a = 6.787(1) Å,
b = 7.272(1) Å, c = 11.014(1) Å,
α = 95.084(9)°, β = 92.805(8)°, and γ
=
100.009(9)°. The dynamic processes of these complexes were
examined in water and in water−DMSO mixtures
resulting in observation of an unknown intramolecular dynamic process.
The extent to which this complex responds
to the environment is discussed, and its implications for biological
studies and the mechanism of action of vanadium
compounds are briefly considered.