CRYSTAL-STRUCTURE OF MGSO3-CENTER-DOT-H2O

The crystal structure of MgSO3 . H2O, space group P2(1)/n, Z = 4, D-x = 2.415 g . cm(-3) a = 4.699(1), b = 12.751(3), c = 5.618(1) Angstrom, beta = 90.49(3)degrees, was determined by single crystal X-ray diffra ction. MgSO3 . H2O crystallizes in the MnSO3 . H2O type. The structure consists of buckled trans layers (2)(infinity) [MgSO3 . H2O], which a re built up from strongly distorted MgO5(H2O) octahedra sharing four e quatorial vertices, and of trigonal pyramidal SO32- ions. It is closel y related to the structures of orthorhombic MnSeO3 . D2O and monoclini c ZnSeO3 . H2O. The Mg-O distances range from 2.051(3) to 2.175(4) Ang strom. The S-O distances (1.543(3), 1.547(3) and 1.493(3) Angstrom) an d the O-S-O angles (98.4(2) and 2x 106.0(2)degrees) correspond to thos e in MnSO3 . H2O. The distortion of the MO5(H2O) octahedra (M = Mg, Mn ) and of the SO32- ions is smaller in MgSO3 . H2O, but with greater de viations from m symmetry. The distances between the H-connected (2)(in finity)[MSO3 . H2O] layers are greater in MgSO3 . H2O, indicating weak er inter-layer hydrogen bonds. The lateral arrangement of the (2)(infi nity)[MSO3 . H2O] layers is nearly the same in both sulfite monohydrat es.