Theoretical study of a 1 : 1 complex between quinone and hydroquinone

Abstract

AbstractThe Variable Electronegativity Pariser–Parr–Pople method has been successfully applied to calculate the potential energy curve for the formation of a 1: 1 complex between quinone and hydroquinone. A consistent evaluation of core and electronic repulsion integrals is important to obtain a meaningful curve. A computationally simple procedure has been suggested for separating interactions due to electron exchange between the components from other intermolecular interactions. In agreement with experimental deductions the preferred configuration for the quinone‐hydroquinone complex is found to be one in which the molecules are in parallel planes with their C—O bonds parallel. The equilibrium separation between the molecular planes is found to be 2.3 Å and the stabilization energy in this position is 1.2 eV. In this equilibrium position forces due to electron exchange constitute the major contributing factor to the stability of the complex.