Q82P - Chemistry: Molecular Nature Of Matter And Change

Question

A metal ion uses d²sp³ orbitals when forming a complex. What is its coordination number and the shape of the complex?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The coordination number is 6 and the shape of the complex is octahedral.

Step 1: Valence bond theory will be used here

Valence bond theory explains to us that the ligand's orbital that is filled overlaps with the empty orbital of the metal ion; ligands donate their electron pairs, the metal ion accepts them and the coordination covalent bond is formed.

 

Step 2: Coordination number and shape of the complex

When metal ion uses d2sp3 orbitals when forming a complex, it means that there are two 3d, one 4s, and three 4p orbitals mixed to form six d2sp3 hybrid orbitals. Thus, the coordination number of the metal ion would be 6 and the shape of the molecule is octahedral.