Polyhedral Vanadium Oxide Cages: Infrared Spectra of Cluster Anions and Size‐Induced d Electron Localization

Abstract

Transition metal oxide cluster anions in the gas phase have been investigated by infrared spectroscopy (see picture). In combination with density functional calculations, the spectra produce compelling evidence that these anions have polyhedral cage structures. With increasing size, the extra electron becomes localized, which leads to a lowering of the symmetry of the polyhedra from D2d to Cs. Supporting information for this article is available on the WWW under http://www.wiley-vch.de/contents/jc_2002/2005/z462894_s.pdf or from the author. Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.