Name the type of hybridization of the atomic orbitals of the complexing agent in the complex ion {Zn (NH3) 4 }2
Answers
Explanation:
This compound would exist as Zn(NH 3 ) 4 SO 4 . When dissolved in water, the sulfate dissociates and the complex ion, Zn(NH 3 ) 2+4 goes into solution. This complex is known to be tetrahedral but let’s not confuse the shape with the hybridization. While it may be true that all poodles are dogs, it is not true that all dogs are poodles. So, just because something is tetrahedral, doesn’t automatically mean that it is sp 3 hybridized.
In this case, the zinc uses its d orbitals to attach the NH 3 ligands. These ligands attach because the lone pair electrons on the NH 3 are attracted to the 2+ charge on the zinc. This electrostatic attraction holds the ammonia molecules to the zinc but these attachments should not be confused with the covalent bonds created by sp 3 hybrid orbitals.
The d orbital splitting diagram for a tetrahedral is shown below.
The splitting energy, Δt , is small compared to other complex ions. As a consequence, the transition is not in the visible region of the spectrum so this complex ion is colorless.