Which metal ion is most likely to form a square planar complex ion with CN^-? A)Co²⁺ B)Cu²⁺ C)Ni²⁺ D)Zn²⁺

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ni(II) has a d8 electron configuration which allows for square planar geometry, whereas Co(II) and Zn(II) prefer tetrahedral or octahedral geometry and Cu(II) prefers tetrahedral or distorted octahedral geometry. Additionally, the anionic ligand, CN^-, is a strong field ligand, which favors complex ions with a low-spin d8 configuration, consistent with square planar geometry.

Which Metal Ion Is Most Likely to Form a Square