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UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist

Chemist

  • 3 descriptive papers
  • 200 marks each
  • 3 h per paper

Mains Paper I covers inorganic chemistry.

UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist, Mains · 2016 · Mains Paper I

Q6(a). Tetragonal distortion

Question

Explain briefly tetragonal distortion of octahedral complexes. In which of the following complexes, it is observed? [Co(NH₃)₆]³⁺, [MnF₆]⁴⁻, Co(II) in strong field, [Ni(H₂O)₆]²⁺ and Mn(III) in weak field.

Answer in brief

Strong first-order Jahn–Teller distortion is expected for low-spin Co(II), d⁷, and high-spin Mn(III), d⁴, because their eg orbitals are unequally occupied.

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CoversTetragonal distortionJahn–Teller effect

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