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What attributes to a coordination complex having the shortest wavelength as compared to other coordination complexes
Accepted Answer
The shortest wavelength of light absorbed by a coordination complex corresponds to the highest energy transition. This is determined by the following factors:
1. Ligand Field Strength: Strong-field ligands (e.g., CN-, CO) cause a large splitting of the d-orbitals, resulting in a higher energy gap and thus a shorter wavelength of light absorbed. Weak-field ligands (e.g., I-, Br-) produce a smaller splitting, leading to lower energy transitions and longer wavelengths.
2. Metal Ion: Transition metals with higher oxidation states have a greater positive charge, leading to stronger interactions with ligands and a larger d-orbital splitting. This results in higher energy transitions and shorter wavelengths.
3. Coordination Number: Complexes with higher coordination numbers typically exhibit a greater splitting of d-orbitals, leading to higher energy transitions and shorter wavelengths. This is because the metal ion is surrounded by more ligands, creating a stronger ligand field.
4. Geometry: The geometry of the coordination complex can also influence the d-orbital splitting. For instance, tetrahedral complexes generally have smaller splitting than octahedral complexes, resulting in longer wavelengths of light absorbed.
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