Which of the following complexes has the smallest d-orbital splitting energy? A) Co(NH₃)₆³⁺ B) Co(NH₃)₅OH²⁺ C) Co(NH₃)₅CN²⁺ D) Co(NH₃)₅I²⁺ E) Co(NH₃)₅(OH₂)³⁺

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The d-orbital splitting energy in a coordination complex is influenced by the ligand field strength, which is determined by the ligands surrounding the central metal ion. Ligands that are strong field cause a larger splitting, while weak field ligands cause a smaller splitting. According to the spectrochemical series, iodide (I−) is a weaker field ligand compared to water (OH−), ammonia (NH3), cyanide (CN−), and oxalate. Therefore, the complex with iodide as a ligand (D) will have the smallest d-orbital splitting energy.

Which of the Following Complexes Has the Smallest D-Orbital Splitting