The Distinction Between Anti-bases (Electron-pair Acceptors) and Oxidizing Species (Electron Acceptors)

Abstract

Electron pairs, as first discussed by Kossel and Lewis, are not as easy to identify with coordinative links in bridged halides and complexes with high coordination number. The fractional atomic charges evaluated for approximate wave-functions do not help much in this respect, whereas the classificatory aspects of oxidation states derived from spectroscopic properties and stereochemistry may be significant. The coordination number of uranium (IV) is discussed.