Electrochemistry of the [Cu(Hdpa)2]2+/+ couple (Hdpa = di-2-pyridylamine)

Abstract

The redox potential of the [Cu(Hdpa)₂]^2+/+ couple (Hdpa = di-2-pyridylamine) has been determined and the associated structural changes correlated with the kinetic parameters for the copper(II)/copper(I) electron transfer. In accordance with the prediction that one-electron reduction of copper(II) complexes of unusual tetrahedral geometry to the corresponding, usually tetrahedral, copper(I) congeners is thermodynamically favoured, the [Cu(Hdpa)₂]^2+/+ reduction occurs, in poorly co-ordinating nitromethane solution, at E°′=+0.19 V (vs. saturated calomel electrode).