The geometry of a coordination compound with a coordination number of 4 is
A)tetrahedral,in order to minimize repulsions between the ligands
B)octahedral,since there are two different positions possible for each ligand
C)square planar,to allow room for the counterion because the ligands take up so much space
D)linear,since there are two ligands on each side of the transition metal
E)tetrahedral or square planar,but too difficult to predict based on the information given

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Coordination compounds with a coordination number of 4 can adopt either a tetrahedral or square planar geometry. The specific geometry depends on factors such as the electronic configuration of the metal ion and the nature of the ligands, rather than being solely determined by the need to minimize ligand repulsions or accommodate counterions.

The Geometry of a Coordination Compound with a Coordination Number