New complexes of 3,4-dimethoxyphenylacetic acid with selected transition metal ions: Spectral, thermal, and magnetic properties

3,4-Dimethoxyphenylacetates of Mn(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), and Zn(II) of general formula M(C 10 H 11 O 4 ) 2 · n H 2 O, where n = 1, 2 or 4 depending on M(II) ions, are obtained. The complexes crystallize in monoclinic or triclinic systems. The carboxylate groups act as bidentate chelating or bridging ligands. On heating in the air (293–1173 K) they decompose in three steps finally forming oxides of the corresponding metals(II) or their mixtures. Magnetic moments of compounds were determined in the ranges of 76–303 and 4–300 K.