Q7(a). Splitting of d orbitals in a square-planar field
Show the splitting of d orbitals in a square planar field according to Crystal Field Theory (CFT). Comment on the following statement: 'The difference in energy between the d(x²−y²) and d(xy) orbitals in a square planar field is identical to the difference between the same orbitals in the octahedral field.'
Answer in brief
Order in a square-planar field: d(x²−y²) ≫ d(xy) > d(z²) > d(xz) = d(yz); the statement is correct within crystal field theory for the same metal, ligands and bond length, the two orbitals being Δo apart in both fields.
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Coverscrystal field theorysquare planar splittingd orbital splittingΔod⁸ complexes
All parts of Question 7
- 7(a) Splitting of d orbitals in a square-planar field10 marks
- 7(b)(i) M–C and C–O bond orders in Ni(CO)₄, [Co(CO)₄]⁻ and [Fe(CO)₄]²⁻10 marks
- 7(b)(ii) Identify A, B and C5 marks
- 7(c)(i) [CoF₆]³⁻ paramagnetic, [Co(CN)₆]³⁻ diamagnetic10 marks
- 7(c)(ii) Structures and magnetic behaviour of Co₂(CO)₈15 marks