The coordination geometry of complex ion[Cu(NH3)6]2+is:a)Octahedralb)T...
Due to the presence of six ligands, it should be octahedral but due to d9 electronic configuration, it will exhibit John Teller distortion and as a result, this complex has a tetragonally distorted octahedral structure.
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The coordination geometry of complex ion[Cu(NH3)6]2+is:a)Octahedralb)T...
Coordination Geometry of [Cu(NH3)6]2+
The complex ion [Cu(NH3)6]2+ consists of a central copper ion coordinated by six ammonia ligands. Understanding its coordination geometry is essential in coordination chemistry.
Octahedral Geometry
- The ideal coordination number for copper(II) complexes is often six, leading to an octahedral geometry.
- In a perfect octahedron, the ligands are symmetrically arranged around the central metal ion.
Tetragonally Distorted Octahedral Geometry
- In reality, [Cu(NH3)6]2+ adopts a tetragonally distorted octahedral structure.
- The distortion arises due to the presence of strong field ligands like NH3, which can cause unequal bond lengths and angles.
- This leads to the elongation of certain metal-ligand bonds, resulting in a square planar arrangement in the equatorial plane and axial positions being longer.
Reasons for Distortion
- The distortion in [Cu(NH3)6]2+ can be attributed to the Jahn-Teller effect.
- Copper(II) has an electronic configuration that can lead to instability in a symmetrical octahedral environment, prompting distortion to lower energy.
Conclusion
- While the complex initially appears octahedral, the actual geometry is best described as tetragonally distorted octahedral.
- This distortion affects the physical and chemical properties of the complex, impacting its reactivity and color.
By understanding these details, one can appreciate the complexity of transition metal coordination compounds like [Cu(NH3)6]2+.