Response to the comment on "crystallographic space group choice and its chemical consequences: Revised crystal structure of [Fe(phen) ₂Cl₂]NO₃"

Space group assignment based on single-crystal X-ray data is a difficult task when solvated complexes are concerned. The crystal structure reported by Lutz et al. concerns a solvated form of our complex [Fe(phen)₂Cl ₂]NO₃. Loss of solvent molecules was prevented by the much lower temperature used for recording X-ray diffraction data. Great care should be taken during crystal analysis, especially depending on whether it has been performed under solvent-free or in solvated conditions. An accurate chemical composition of inorganic complexes containing solvate molecules can be achieved only after annealing for a long time at a rigorously constant temperature.