The reduction of 9,10-anthraquinones. Part II. Polarography of 2-hydroxy-9,10-anthrahydroquinones

Abstract

Reduction of 2-hydroxy-9,10-anthraquinones in aqueous buffer solutions of pH 9–10 gives the corresponding anthrahydroquinone, but this exists in equilibrium with a tautomeric 2,9-dihydroxy-10-anthrone. Polarographic reduction of the latter gives a diffusion-controlled limiting current and, at more negative potentials, a kinetic current attributed to reduction of a 2-hydroxy-10-anthrone. The polarography of some anthrones has been briefly examined.