heteropolymolybdate

Heteropolymolybdates are complex inorganic acids and their salts that contain several groups or ions of different acid-forming elements. They are formed when acid anhydrides condense with other acids, such as phosphoric or silicic acids.12

These compounds are typically prepared in solution by acidifying and heating the reactants. They are known for having very high molecular weights, being highly soluble in water and organic solvents, and often existing in hydrated forms. Some heteropolymolybdates are strong oxidizing agents that can be reduced to stable, deep blue species.2

Historically, the first heteropoly compound was discovered in 1826 and is still used for detecting and estimating phosphorus. Beyond analytical chemistry, heteropoly compounds have applications as catalysts, molecular sieves, and corrosion inhibitors.2