Question

How do steric factors affect the stability of complexes?

Answer 1

Answer:

Steric Effects and the Stability of Complex Compounds. I. The Chelating Tendencies of N-Alkylethylenediamines, with Copper(II) and Nickel(II) Ions1

Answer 2

Answer:

Steric factors decrease the stability of the complex.

Explanation:

The presence of bulky groups on the metal complexes affects the stability of the complex. This decrease in the stability of the complex due to bulkier groups on the complex is called the steric effect.

The presence of bulkier groups causes steric hindrance which leads to a decrease in stability.

When there is a bulkier group attached to the donor atom, it leads to repulsion between the donor atom and the bulky group. This weakens the bonding between the metal and the ligand, thus making the compound unstable.