Knowledge Bank

A series of complexes of the type [(MM)(piv)$3$]$2$-\mu$2$-BL, where M= Mo or W, piv= pivalate, and BL= oxalate or terephthalate, were synthesized. These complexes are known to form strongly coupled mixed valence species in their +1 (singly oxidized) state. Here, we report the properties of the neutral complexes, which are of appropriate symmetry to form mixed valence species in their metal-to-ligand charge transfer (MLCT) excited states. In particular, we discuss the steady state, electroabsorption, and time resolved spectroscopy associated with MLCT excitation. We also consider the inter-relation (if any) of the properties of ground- and excited-state mixed valency.