Preparation, configurational and DFT-NBO analysis of nickel(II) complexes with edta-type ligands containing six-membered backbone ring: crystal structure of [Ni(H2O)(6)][Ni(1,3-pdta)]center dot 2H(2)O

New hexadentate nickel(II) complex Mg[Ni(1,3-pd3ap)]center dot 10H(2)O containing unsymmetrical edta-type ligand, 1,3-propanediamine-N,N,N '-triacetate-N-3-propionate (1,3-pd3ap), has been prepared, chromatographically separated, and characterized. Only one [trans(O-5)] of the two possible geometrical isomers was isolated. In this isomer, the two five-membered glycinate rings (R rings) occupy trans-axial sites while the one glycinate ring and one beta-alaninate ring lie in the equatorial plane with the two diamine nitrogens (G rings). This result confirms the assignment made on the basis of the density functional theory (DFT), IR, and UVVis spectral data analysis. In order to see cation influence on the structural and electronic behavior, [Ni(H2O)(6)][Ni(1,3-pdta)]center dot 2H(2)O complex has also been prepared and its structure verified by an X-ray analysis. Spectral data and electronic transition assignment, DFTnatural bonding orbital, and an extensive strain analysis are discussed in comparison with those of other [Ni(edta-type)](2-) complexes of known configuration.