Here are some crystal field representations of d electrons in an octahedral complex:
I) II) III) IV) V) Choose the representation that fits the transition metal atom in the following species:
-Fe(OH₂) ₆³⁺ (assume weak field)

Question

Here are some crystal field representations of d electrons in an octahedral complex:
I)

II)

III)

IV)

V)

Choose the representation that fits the transition metal atom in the following species:
-Fe(OH₂) ₆³⁺ (assume weak field)

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Fe in Fe(OH₂)₆³⁺ is in a weak field environment. In a weak field environment, the crystal field splitting is small, and the d-orbitals are not strongly destabilized. Thus, the d-orbitals remain degenerate and there is no energy difference between them. The representation III shows the d-orbitals as degenerate, so it is the best representation for Fe in this complex. Representations I, II, IV, and V show varying degrees of splitting, which would not be observed in a weak field environment.

Here Are Some Crystal Field Representations of D Electrons in an Octahedral