Which ion would you expect to have the largest crystal field splitting Δ? A)[Co(CN)₆]^4- B)[Co(CN)₆]^3- C)[Co(H₂O)₆]²⁺ D)[Co(H₂O)₆]³⁺

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The crystal field splitting (Δ) is influenced by the nature of the ligands surrounding the metal ion, according to the spectrochemical series. Ligands like CN^- (cyanide) cause a larger crystal field splitting compared to H2O (water). Therefore, the complex with CN^- ligands and a lower oxidation state of the metal ion, which allows for a higher d-electron count and potentially stronger ligand field, will have the largest Δ. [Co(CN)6]^3- fits this description best among the options.

Which Ion Would You Expect to Have the Largest Crystal