Structured near-infrared Magnetic Circular Dichroism spectra of the Mn4CaO5 cluster of PSII in T. vulcanus are dominated by Mn(IV) d-d ‘spin-flip’ transitions

Abstract Photosystem II passes through four metastable S-states in catalysing light-driven water oxidation. Variable temperature variable field (VTVH) Magnetic Circular Dichroism (MCD) spectra in PSII of Thermosynochococcus ( T. ) vulcanus for each S-state are reported. These spectra, along with assignments, provide a new window into the electronic and magnetic structure of Mn 4 CaO 5 . VTVH MCD spectra taken in the S 2 state provide a clear g = 2, S  = 1/2 paramagnetic characteristic, which is entirely consistent with that known by EPR. The three features, seen as positive (+) at 749 nm, negative (−) at 773 nm and (+) at 808 nm are assigned as 4 A →  2 E spin-flips within the d 3 configuration of the Mn(IV) centres present. This assignment is supported by comparison(s) to spin-flips seen in a range of Mn(IV) materials. S 3 exhibits a more intense (−) MCD peak at 764 nm and has a stronger MCD saturation characteristic. This S 3 MCD saturation behaviour can be accurately modelled using parameters taken directly from analyses of EPR spectra. We see no evidence for Mn(III) d-d absorption in the near-IR of any S-state. We suggest that Mn(IV)-based absorption may be responsible for the well-known near-IR induced changes induced in S 2 EPR spectra of T. vulcanus and not Mn(III)-based, as has been commonly assumed. Through an analysis of the nephelauxetic effect, the excitation energy of S-state dependent spin-flips seen may help identify coordination characteristics and changes at each Mn(IV). A prospectus as to what more detailed S-state dependent MCD studies promise to achieve is outlined.