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Why square planar complexes are more stable than cathedral complexes ?
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Why square planar complexes are more stable than cathedral complexes ?
Why Square Planar Complexes are More Stable than Cathedral Complexes?


Coordination complexes are formed by the interaction of a metal ion with ligands. The stability of these complexes is influenced by the geometry of the complex. In this context, square planar complexes are found to be more stable than cathedral complexes. The following are the reasons for this stability difference:


Crystal Field Stabilization Energy (CFSE)



  • CFSE is defined as the energy difference between the d-orbitals of the metal ion in the free state and those in the complex.

  • The CFSE of square planar complexes is higher than that of cathedral complexes because in square planar complexes, the d-orbitals are split into two sets of degenerate orbitals, the dx2-y2 and the dxy orbitals.

  • On the other hand, in cathedral complexes, the d-orbitals are split into three sets of degenerate orbitals, the dx2-y2, the dxy, and the dxz/yz orbitals.

  • The splitting of d-orbitals is due to the presence of the ligands around the metal ion, which creates an electric field that affects the energy levels of the d-orbitals.

  • The higher CFSE of square planar complexes means that they have a lower energy state, which makes them more stable than cathedral complexes.



Steric Hindrance



  • Cathedral complexes have a larger size compared to square planar complexes because they have four ligands in the equatorial plane and two ligands in the axial plane.

  • This larger size induces steric hindrance between the ligands, which makes the complex less stable.

  • On the other hand, square planar complexes have all four ligands in the same plane, which reduces the steric hindrance between the ligands, making the complex more stable.



Electronic Effects



  • Cathedral complexes have two axial ligands, which are farther away from the metal ion than the equatorial ligands.

  • This greater distance leads to a weaker interaction between the axial ligands and the metal ion, which reduces the stability of the complex.

  • On the other hand, square planar complexes have all four ligands in the same plane, which leads to a stronger interaction between the ligands and the metal ion, making the complex more stable.



In conclusion, square planar complexes are more stable than cathedral complexes due to their higher CFSE, lower steric hindrance, and stronger electronic interaction between the ligands and the metal ion.
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Why square planar complexes are more stable than cathedral complexes ?
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