Abstract
I REGRET having attributed an (incorrect) ionic radius for Cu2+ to Prof. Goldschmidt, particularly as the radius always appeared doubtful. The reference is simply a clerical error. Prof. Goldschmidt's letter does, however, raise a point of some importance. While it is true that copper lies between nickel and zinc in the Periodic Table, it is far from true to say that as regards its structural chemistry CuII lies between NiII and ZnII. If it exists in any simple solid compound, the Cu2+ ion should be found in the oxide or fluoride. The neighbouring divalent elements are and the facts about the crystal structures are: Monoxides: MnO, FeO, CoO, NiO, MgO, CdO, rock-salt structure: ZnO, wurtzite and zinc-blende structures. CuO has a quite different structure, very similar to that of PdO, with square co-ordination of the metal atoms by oxygen.
This is a preview of subscription content, access via your institution
Access options
Subscribe to this journal
Receive 51 print issues and online access
$199.00 per year
only $3.90 per issue
Buy this article
- Purchase on Springer Link
- Instant access to full article PDF
Prices may be subject to local taxes which are calculated during checkout
Similar content being viewed by others
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
WELLS, A. Ionic Radius of Divalent Copper. Nature 157, 192–193 (1946). https://doi.org/10.1038/157192b0
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/157192b0
Comments
By submitting a comment you agree to abide by our Terms and Community Guidelines. If you find something abusive or that does not comply with our terms or guidelines please flag it as inappropriate.