Coordination of Cu(II) in Cu(NO3)2 aqueous solutions

Abstract

Two concentrated copper (II) nitrate solutions have been examined by x-ray diffraction. The inspection of the radial distribution curves and the direct fitting of the structure functions suggested that a distorted arrangement of six oxygen atoms exists around the Cu2+ ion, probably in a tetragonally distorted, elongated octahedron. The best agreement with experimental data was achieved through a model in which extensive inner-sphere complex formation between Cu2+ and NO−3 ions takes place.