Choose the correct shape, weak or strong field, and number of unpaired electrons for [Co(NH₃)₄]²⁺. A) octahedral, weak, 3 B) octahedral, strong, 3 C) square planar, strong, 1 D) tetrahedral, weak, 1 E) tetrahedral, strong, 1

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The ligand field of NH₃ is a strong field ligand due to its ability to donate electrons and create a significant energy difference between the d orbitals. This pushes the d electrons towards the lower energy t2g orbitals, leaving only one electron in the eg set. The ligand field of ₄ is also strong and will also push electrons towards the t2g orbitals. Since both ligands are strong field, the complex must have a square planar geometry. Therefore, the correct choice is C as it is the only option with a strong field ligand and square planar geometry with one unpaired electron.

Choose the Correct Shape, Weak or Strong Field, and Number