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A solution if the coordination complex Na2[Co(SCN)4] has a deep blue colour. What is the term symbol for the ground state energy level
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To determine the term symbol for the ground state energy level of the complex ion [Co(SCN)4]2-, we need to consider the following:
1. Electronic Configuration of Cobalt: Cobalt(II) ion (Co2+) has a d7 electronic configuration ([Ar] 3d7).
2. Ligand Field Splitting: SCN- is a weak field ligand, leading to a smaller splitting of the d orbitals. This means the complex will likely have a high spin configuration.
3. Crystal Field Theory: In a tetrahedral complex like [Co(SCN)4]2-, the d orbitals split into two sets: e (dxy, dxz, dyz) and t2 (dx2-y2, dz2). In a high spin configuration, the electrons will fill the orbitals with the lowest energy first, resulting in 3 electrons in the t2 set and 4 electrons in the e set.
4. Term Symbol: To find the term symbol, we apply Hund's rules:
- Maximize the spin multiplicity (S). In this case, S = 3/2 (since there are 4 unpaired electrons).
- Maximize the total orbital angular momentum (L). In this case, L = 2 (since there are 3 electrons in the t2 set with L=1 each).
- The term symbol is written as 2S+1LJ. Therefore, the term symbol for the ground state of [Co(SCN)4]2- is 4F.
Note: The deep blue color is due to the electronic transitions within the d orbitals of the cobalt ion.
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