The dielectric and Raman spectra of K2S2O6

Factor group and site group analyses have been carried out on potassium dithionate in order to classify the normal modes of vibration and their spectroscopic activities. It is shown that polarised i.r. and Raman spectra may be obtained and unambiguously interpreted in spite of the complexity of the crystal and of the strong optical activity. The Raman spectrum of the solution has also been studied and a discussion is given of the significance of the differences between the dithionate ion vibrations in solution and in the crystal lattice, relating these to the bulk properties of the material.