Note on the Structure of the Groups XO3

Abstract

The structure of such radicals as ${\left(\mathrm{N}{\mathrm{O}}_3\right)}^{-}$ on the one hand, ${\left(\mathrm{C}\mathrm{l}{\mathrm{O}}_3\right)}^{-}$ on the other, is discussed on the basis of their being partly valence compounds, the oxygen being in the form of ${\mathrm{O}}^{-1\mathrm{}}$ with one valence bond. The directional properties of the valence lead to a coplanar structure for the first type of radical, a pyramidal one for the second, as is observed. The energy relations are discussed, it is shown that the valence model will be bound in a stable structure, and that it is stabler and hence nearer the real model than the purely ionic structure.