What is the crystal field energy level diagram for the complex [Fe(H₂O)₆]³⁺? A)(

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The crystal field energy level diagram for the complex can be obtained by assigning the ligand orbitals as appropriate symmetry species according to their shape and orientation. The ligand field generated by the six sulfur atoms around the iron ion will split the five d-orbitals of the iron into two sets: a lower energy set (dxy and dyz) and a higher energy set (dxz, dx2-y2, and dz2). The d-orbitals that point directly towards the sulfur atoms (i.e. dxz, dx2-y2, and dz2) will have their energy raised more than the other two orbitals due to greater repulsion with the ligand electrons. The diagram in option B correctly shows this splitting pattern.

What Is the Crystal Field Energy Level Diagram for the Complex