The reaction below virtually goes to completion because cyanide ion forms very stable complexes with Ni²⁺ ion: [Ni(H₂O) ₆]²⁺(aq) + 4 CN^-(aq) → [Ni(CN) ₄]^2-(aq) + 6 H₂O(l)
At the same time,incorporation of ¹⁴C labelled cyanide ion (¹⁴CN^-) is very rapid:
[Ni(CN) ₄]^2-(aq) + 4 ¹⁴CN^-(aq) = [Ni(¹⁴CN) ₄]^2-(aq) + 4 CN^-(aq)
Which statement below is correct with regard to stability and rate of reaction?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The stability of the complex formed by cyanide ion with Ni²⁺ ion indicates that it is a stable species. However, the rapid incorporation of labelled cyanide ion in the reaction shows that stable species can also react rapidly. Therefore, the correct statement is that stable species can react rapidly.

The Reaction Below Virtually Goes to Completion Because Cyanide Ion