Chemical Science

The H⁺(aq) ion in ionized strong aqueous acids is an unexpectedly unique H₁₃O₆⁺ entity, unlike those in gas phase H⁺(H₂O)_n clusters or typical crystalline acid hydrates. IR spectroscopy indicates that the core structure has neither C_3vH₃O⁺ Eigen-like nor typical H₅O₂⁺ Zundel-like character. Rather, extensive delocalization of the positive charge leads to a H₁₃O₆⁺ ion having an unexpectedly long central O⋯O separation of ∼2.57 Å and four conjugated O⋯O separations of ∼2.7 Å. These dimensions are in conflict with the shorter O⋯O separations found in structures calculated by theory. Ultrafast dynamic properties of the five H atoms involved in these H-bonds lead to a substantial collapse of normal IR vibrations and the appearance of a continuous broad absorption (cba) across the entire IR spectrum. This cba is distinguishable from the broad IR bands associated with typical low-barrier H-bonds. The solvation shell outside of the H₁₃O₆⁺ ion defines the boundary of positive charge delocalization. At low acid concentrations, the H₁₃O₆⁺ ion is a constituent part of an ion pair that has contact with the first hydration shell of the conjugate base anion. At higher concentrations, or with weaker acids, one or two H₂O molecules of H₁₃O₆⁺ cation are shared with the hydration shell of the anion. Even the strongest acids show evidence of ion pairing.