Spin-crossover complexes

Spin-crossover complexes are special compounds, usually involving transition metals, that can switch between two electronic states—high-spin and low-spin—based on external factors like temperature, pressure, or light. This change alters their magnetic and optical properties, making them useful in sensors, data storage, and smart materials. The transition occurs because the metal’s electrons reorganize, changing how they are arranged around the metal center. Importantly, this switch is reversible and can happen quickly, enabling these complexes to respond dynamically to their environment.