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Why would water have a higher ligand field energy than ethydiamine and ammonia in a Cr(III) complex in a water solvent
Accepted Answer
Water molecules are stronger ligands than ethylenediamine and ammonia, leading to a higher ligand field splitting energy (Δo) in a Cr(III) complex. This is primarily due to the following factors:
Greater electronegativity: Oxygen in water is more electronegative than nitrogen in ethylenediamine and ammonia. This attracts electron density from the metal ion more effectively, strengthening the metal-ligand bond and increasing Δo.
Stronger donor ability: Water is a better σ-donor ligand compared to ethylenediamine and ammonia, as it can donate electron density more readily to the metal ion's empty orbitals, leading to a stronger interaction and higher Δo.
Hydrogen bonding: In aqueous solutions, water molecules can form hydrogen bonds with the metal ion, further stabilizing the complex and contributing to a higher Δo.
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