Reduction of tris(dipyridyl) and tris(phenanthroline) complexes of Fe(III), Ru(III), and Os(III) in neutral and alkaline media

Abstract

1. In the first stage of reduction of tris(dipyridyl) and tris(phenanthroline) complexes of Fe(III), Ru(III), and Os(III), the hydroxyl ion attacks the transition-metal complex; the direction of this attack influences the character of the products. 2. Attack of OH− at the central metal atom in the complex ultimately leads to oxidation of water. 3. Nucleophilic attack of OH− at the ligand coordinated with the metal (promoted by the presence of a strongly electrophilic metal ion in the complex) leads to hydroxylation of the ligand.