5 Questions
What does the crystal field theory explain?
Bonding and properties of complexes
How are negative ligands treated in the crystal field theory?
As point charges
What happens to the energy of d orbitals when ligands approach the metal ion to form a complex?
Increases
What is the nature of the metal-ligand bonds according to the crystal field theory?
100% ionic
What interaction types may occur in the bonding of the complex according to the crystal field theory?
Ion-ion or ion-dipole
Study Notes
Crystal Field Theory
- Crystal field theory proposed by Hans Bethe and Van Vleck
- Provides a more satisfactory explanation for bonding and properties of complexes than valence bond theory
- Based on assumptions including purely electrostatic interaction between metal ion and ligand
- Metal-ligand bonds are considered 100% ionic in nature
- Negative ligands treated as point charges; neutral ligands as dipoles
- Bonding in complex may be ion-ion or ion-dipole interaction
- 5d orbitals in isolated gaseous metal atom/ion are degenerate (same energy)
- When ligands approach metal ion, d-orbitals are repelled leading to increased energy
- Repulsion between electrons in d-orbitals and negative charge/lone pair electrons of ligands
- Energy of d-orbitals increases, and degeneracy is lost
- Impacts the electronic configuration and properties of the complex
- Crystal field theory offers a framework for understanding the behavior of transition metal complexes
Test your knowledge of crystal field theory with this quiz! Explore the key assumptions, explanations for bonding, and properties of complexes proposed by Hans Bethe and Van Vleck. Dive into the electrostatic interaction between metal ions and ligands, and the ionic nature of metal-ligand bonds.
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