1.

(i). What is crystal field splitting energy? How does the magnitude of ∆0 decide the actual configuration of d-orbital in a coordination entity? (ii). Co (II) is very stable in aqueous solutions but get easily oxidised in presence of strong ligands. Why?

Answer»

(i) When ligands approach a transition metal ion, the d-orbitals split into two sets, one with lower energy and the other with higher energy. The difference of energy between the two sets of orbitals is called crystal field splitting energy (△0) for octahedral field.

If △0<P (pairing energy) the 4th electron enters one of the egeg orbitals giving the configuration t32geg1 Thus forming high spin complexes. Such ligands for which △0<P are called weak field ligands.

If △0<P the 4th electron pairs up in one of the t2g orbitals giving the configuration t2g4eg0 thereby forming low spin complexes. Such ligands for which △0>P are called strong field ligands.

(ii) Water is weak ligand and cannot paired up the electrons, but strong ligand have a tendency to pair up the electrons, so CO2+ is stable in aqueous solution but in the presence of strong ligands it is easily oxidised.



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