The far-ultraviolet solution spectroscopy of cyanide, cyanate, selenocyanate and tellurocyanate. The solution spectroscopy of the NCX series

Abstract

The far-UV solution spectra of cyanide (CN^–), cyanate (NCO^–), selenocyanate (NCSe^–) and tellurocyanate (NCTe^–) are reported in a range of solvents and over a wide range of temperatures. Detailed computer analysis of the absorption profiles shows several bands to be present whose solvent and temperature shifts for the first two bands are different from the third, intense, high-energy band. The band properties are analysed in terms of CTTS character for the first two bands and an intramolecular electronic transition for the third band. The nature of the electronic transitions for the NCX^– series, including thiocyanate, is discussed.