The species [Cr(CN)₆]^{4 -} is considered a strong field, low spin complex. Which statement below is true regarding this complex?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The designation "strong field" indicates that the ligands in this complex strongly influence the electron configuration of the metal ion. The designation "low spin" indicates that pairing of electrons in the d orbitals has occurred to the maximum extent possible. The formula [Cr(CN)₆]^{4 -} indicates that there are four ligands, each of which is capable of donating a lone pair of electrons (designated as P in the formula). The first number after each ligand symbol (S or P) indicates the type of orbital involved in bonding, while the second number indicates the number of electrons donated. Since each ligand donates two electrons, the total number of electrons donated is 8. The metal ion has six valence electrons in the d orbitals, which means that the total number of electrons in the complex is 14. The pairing of electrons in the d orbitals occurs to the maximum extent possible, and thus the electron configuration of the metal ion is d⁴. Since there are four unpaired electrons in this configuration, there are two unpaired electrons in the metal ion. Therefore, the correct answer is C.

The Species [Cr(CN)6]4 - Is Considered a Strong Field

The Species [Cr(CN)₆]^{4 -} Is Considered a Strong Field