Geometric and electronic structure of γ-V₂O₅: Comparison between α-V₂O₅ and γ-V ₂O₅

Electronic structure calculations of γ-V₂O₅ are presented and compared to the electronic structure of the more commonly known α-V₂O₅. The different VO₅ building blocks in γ-V₂O₅ are investigated in terms of the angular momentum projected density of states. Since the same structural unit is also found in the α-V₂O₅ phase, it is possible to compare the electronic structure with respect to differences in the geometry of the VO₅ pyramids. Electron energy-loss spectroscopy is applied as a sensitive probe of the electronic structure and reveals differences in the fine structure of the oxygen K ionization edge which are confirmed by the simulation.