Copper and zinc in their higher oxidation states: A brief history and the present day

Existing literature data on inorganic and coordination compounds in which Cu and Zn have oxidation states III and higher are systematized and summarized. It is noted that the physico-chemistry of Cu(III) compounds is currently well-studied, whereas that of copper compounds in higher oxidation states requires significant addition; at the same time, the physico-chemistry of zinc compounds in oxidation states III and higher, it is currently in its infancy. The potential for practical application of these compounds, both current and future, is also discussed. • A systematization of coordination compounds containing M(III) and M(IV) (M = Cu, Zn) has been presented. • The known literature data concerning these chemical compounds have been systematized and summarized. • The potential for practical application of these compounds, both current and future, is discussed.